Serron Nghoshi
It is quite obvious that moments of excitement in local governance are inevitable. The swearing-in of councillors and public announcements on land delivery, housing lists, or infrastructure plans often raise hope among residents, not only for Omaruru but everywhere. However, history has shown that excitement alone does not improve the lives of residents. What truly matters is the work that follows the excitement has passed.
For many residents of Omaruru, particularly those in informal settlements and low-income areas, the daily realities remain unchanged; access to serviced land continues to be a major challenge year after year, lists are announced, expectations are raised, yet many people still wait indefinitely for land allocation while informal structures continue to grow. A people-centred council must prioritise transparent, fair, and consistent land delivery processes; otherwise housing remains another pressing issue.
While plans and intentions are often communicated, affordable housing development has not matched the demand; young people above 30 are still in their parents’ houses, and low-income workers and single parents are finding it increasingly difficult to secure decent shelter within the town.
Excitement around housing initiatives must translate into visible construction, clear criteria, and regular progress updates to the community.
Service delivery is equally critical; poor road conditions in certain residential areas continue to affect the quality of life of residents in our town of Omaruru. These are not complex or unrealistic demands; they are basic municipal responsibilities. A people-centred council ensures that service delivery is not concentrated only in certain areas but reaches all parts of the town equally.
Youth unemployment remains one of the most urgent challenges in the town. Many young people feel excluded from economic opportunities, despite frequent discussions about youth empowerment.
Development projects within Omaruru must intentionally include local labour, which has not been the case for quite some time, not forgetting skills transfer and support for youth-owned initiatives.
Without this, development becomes visible but not beneficial to the people who need it most.
Community engagement is another area that requires improvement. Public meetings over the years were often poorly attended, not because residents are disinterested, but because communication is limited or feedback from previous engagements is never provided.
A people-centred council must close this gap by ensuring that community consultations are meaningful, accessible, and followed by action. Importantly, service delivery must never be politicised. Water provision, refuse removal, land allocation, and road maintenance should not depend on political affiliation or personal connections.
Omaruru belongs to all its residents, and development must be inclusive and fair. Accountability is the foundation of public trust. When projects delay or fail, residents deserve honest explanations rather than silence. Leadership is not measured by promises made during moments of excitement but by consistency, transparency, and the willingness to be held accountable.
The people of Omaruru do not need more ceremonies or announcements. They need sustained work, visible progress, and leadership that listens and responds. Governance must be felt in households and on the streets, not only heard in meetings.
In conclusion, the real task for the council begins after the excitement fades. A people-centred approach focused on land, housing, service delivery, youth inclusion, and accountability is the only path toward restoring confidence and improving the lives of all residents. Omaruru deserves leadership that works, not only celebrates.
*Serron Nghoshi serves as the district secretary of the Swapo Party Youth League (SPYL) in Omaruru.
