The governor of the Ohangwena region, Kadiva Hamutumwa, has called for the urgent development of the Ohangwena Aquifer to secure water supply for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use.
“Additionally, we should work hard at developing earth dams that will serve as strategic catchment areas for both rain and floodwater. This will serve as our water security strategy for the region, as this water is best to use for agricultural purposes,” she said.
Hamutumwa also stressed the need for critical road and network infrastructure to enhance business development.
She said economic growth depends on creating industries and businesses that can serve as stimulants for the region’s economy.
She emphasised that agriculture should remain a priority and called for the adoption of climate-smart farming practices to ensure food security.
She also proposed the establishment of a textile manufacturing industry to supply clothing for education, security, health, sport, fashion, and the private sector.
According to her, a crafts industry should be developed to generate economic value from wooden products made by TVET graduates.
These would be exported while conserving the environment.
On tourism, Hamutumwa urged residents to position Ohangwena as a tourism hub in the North Central region.
“We must develop our tourism sector, enhancing cultural tourism that celebrates who we are and showcasing our tradition, heritage, and natural beauty to the world,” she said.
She added that the Eenhana airstrip should be developed into a fully-fledged airport to boost trade and tourism. The facility, she said, could become a commercial corridor linking Namibia to other SADC countries and strengthen bilateral and economic ties with Angola.
“To realise the above priorities, there is a need to form strategic partnerships and economic alliances. Reliance on the government for the implementation of various strategies may not be feasible and as a region we should diversify our source of investment and funding mobilisation by creating an enabling environment for investment,” Hamutumwa said.
Caption
Kadiva Hamutumwa
- Photo: Contributed
