Allexer Namundjembo
The United Democratic Front (UDF) Youth League and Oshikuku community activists are calling for accountability and better service delivery from newly elected regional and local authority councillors.
Both say communities expect leaders to prioritise basic services, transparency and public welfare.
UDF Youth League secretary Reinold #Goseb urged councillors to focus on clean water, proper roads, electricity, healthcare and education.
He said political theatrics should not overshadow service delivery and reminded office bearers that public institutions must work in the interest of citizens.
#Goseb also questioned how public resources are managed, especially in the awarding of tenders and the rollout of state-funded projects.
“Citizens voted with the expectation of accountability and responsible spending. Delays and the politicisation of development initiatives undermine community trust,” he said.
He encouraged the public, especially young people, to stay involved in holding leaders accountable.
“Oversight by citizens is necessary to ensure that elected office bearers fulfil their responsibilities,” he said.
He added that the Youth League supports efforts to strengthen ethical leadership and improve service delivery nationwide.
In Oshikuku, community activist and resident Gabriel Mandume echoed these concerns when speaking about the town’s dump site, which sits less than 500 meters from homes.
“Residents report frequent burning of waste, causing smoke, strong odours and health concerns for families nearby. Despite repeated complaints, no meaningful action has been taken by the town council,” he said.
Mandume said burning plastic and household waste exposes residents to harmful chemicals that pose short- and long-term health risks.
He stated that the situation primarily affects children, elderly residents, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
He described the situation as a public-health challenge that requires immediate action.
He said the Oshikuku Town Council is legally obligated under the Namibian Constitution and the Local Authorities Act to ensure safe waste management and protect residents’ welfare.
Mandume said the current state of the dumpsite violates the community’s right to a clean and safe environment.
Efforts to reach the Oshikuku Town Council mayor for comment were unsuccessful, as phone calls did not go through.
