Allexer Namundjembo
After nearly a decade of leadership uncertainty, Eugene Siwombe Kudumo has been officially appointed as the new chief of the Uukwangali Traditional Authority.
Minister of urban and rural development James Sankwasa confirmed the decision in a letter dated 12 August 2025, addressed to Sisindi Mbambero, a member of the Uukwangali Chiefs Council.
The Uukwangali community has been without a recognised chief since the passing of chief Daniel Sitentu Mpasi on 17 December 2014.
Leadership succession was delayed due to disputes within the royal family and legal challenges, including a 2019 High Court ruling that set aside Siwombe’s initial appointment.
The court cited procedural irregularities in the nomination process, leaving the authority without recognised leadership for years.
“Drawing on our own history of following customary law and upholding justice, we are pleased to confirm Eugene Siwombe as the rightful Chief of the Uukwangali Traditional Authority,” Sankwasa said.
According to reports, a consultative meeting held in Nkurenkuru last week with the disputing applicants, royal family members and the Traditional Council (Masimbi) confirmed that customary procedures were properly followed.
The minister cited section 5(2) of the Traditional Authorities Act, 2000 (Act No. 25 of 2000), as the legal basis for approving Siwombe’s appointment.
Sankwasa has been actively involved in resolving chieftaincy disputes across Namibia since taking office.
His interventions have facilitated dialogue and ensured adherence to legal frameworks, helping communities such as the Gciriku and Masubia to resolve disputes and appoint recognised chiefs.
“This designation marks the end of years of uncertainty and brings hope and stability to the Uukwangali Traditional Authority,” said Sankwasa.
Siwombe’s appointment follows previous interventions by former president Nangolo Mbumba, who in December 2024 acknowledged the removal of the former Uukwangali “Hompa” after ongoing family disputes and legal proceedings.
Namibia continues to face leadership disputes in several traditional authorities. The Ovaherero Traditional Authority is still torn on having a substantive chief.
The Dâure Daman Traditional Authority faces unrest, with community members demanding the removal of Chief Sagarias Seibeb over alleged financial mismanagement and lack of development. Protests and sit-ins have been staged.
The Uukwambi Traditional Authority remains divided over leadership and the appointment of a new chief, with a 2024 court case highlighting tensions.
The Uukwambi royal family has sought to reinstate the monarchy, which was ended in 1932, and planned commemorations have clashed with the current authority led by chief Herman Iipumbu.
The Blouwes clan has also faced leadership challenges since 2012, with the recognition of acting leader Johannes Benjamin Koopman contested by parts of the ǁKhawoben community seeking their own leadership.
