Councillor Calls for Urgent Development Reforms in Kavango East and West

Mukwe, Kavango East  In a passionate address, Damian Maghambayi, Councillor of Mukwe Constituency, has called for immediate reforms and inclusive governance to bridge the developmental gap in Kavango East and West. Highlighting decades of unwavering loyalty to the ruling SWAPO Party, Maghambayi underscored the urgent need for equitable service delivery in the regions.

He lamented a troubling trend of discrediting competent leaders within the regions, which he said undermines their ability to produce competitive candidates capable of representing Kavango East and West at national platforms. This was evident in the poor performance of regional candidates during the recent SWAPO Party Electoral College.

“Despite our loyalty, our regions continue to lag behind in development,” Maghambayi stated, pointing to national statistics that reveal stark disparities in infrastructure, education, and public service representation.

Key Developmental Priorities

Maghambayi outlined five critical areas requiring immediate government intervention:

1. Infrastructure Development: Construction of feeder roads to improve connectivity and economic integration.
2. Water and Energy Access: Expanding rural electrification and ensuring sustainable water resources for all communities.
3. Education: Increasing regional representation in scholarship programs to build a skilled workforce.
4. Leadership Appointments: Prioritizing the appointment of qualified individuals from the region to senior government roles, including diplomatic positions.
5. Human-Wildlife Conflict: Addressing the escalating conflict with crocodiles, hippos, and elephants that threaten lives and destroy crops. Maghambayi urged the government to implement fair compensation systems and ensure local communities benefit from tourism profits.

Harnessing Untapped Potential

Maghambayi emphasized the region’s untapped resources, including fertile soil, water, and forests, which position Kavango East and West to become Namibia’s breadbasket. Properly utilizing these resources, alongside the region’s green schemes, could significantly enhance food security and economic growth.

A Call for Accountability

He urged appointing authorities to prioritize merit, capacity, and past performance in leadership appointments. “It is essential to create a dynamic and accountable administration that serves the best interests of our people,” Maghambayi asserted.

Vision 2030 and Beyond

Maghambayi concluded by calling for a reevaluation of service delivery mechanisms to align Kavango East and West with the broader Vision 2030 goals of industrialization and prosperity. “Our loyalty must be reciprocated. The journey to a prosperous Namibia requires that no region be left behind.”

The speech serves as a powerful call to action for equitable governance and sustainable development, highlighting the potential of Kavango East and West to contribute meaningfully to Namibia’s growth.