We Must Empower Local Entrepreneurs in Rundu – Paulus Nginga Mbangu
By TUW
Rundu Rural Constituency Councillor Paulus Nginga Mbangu has pledged to prioritise the empowerment of local entrepreneurs in the Kavango Region, describing it as a key solution to addressing inequality and economic hardship in the area.
Mbangu made these remarks during an event hosted by the Muzokumwe Volunteer Organisation, where political analyst and academic Joseph Diescho was the main speaker. The event focused on social development, economic participation, and the role of communities in shaping sustainable growth.
Speaking at the gathering, Mbangu challenged the common narrative that Rundu is a rapidly growing town, arguing that such claims often do not reflect the lived realities of local residents.
“Saying that Rundu is the fastest-growing town is just political rhetoric,” Mbangu said. “When you look at the businesses operating in town, the majority are owned by Chinese and Indian nationals, while local people remain on the margins.”
He expressed concern that the lack of meaningful participation by local entrepreneurs in the economy has left many residents vulnerable to poverty, exploitation, and job insecurity. According to Mbangu, this situation has contributed to a cycle where workers are easily dismissed or mistreated but are forced to return to the same employers due to limited alternatives.
“Our people cannot stand on their own because of hunger,” he said. “That is why you find a situation where someone is fired or mistreated today, but tomorrow they are back at the same workplace, simply because there are no other opportunities.”
Mbangu stressed that true development cannot be measured by infrastructure growth alone, but by how much local people benefit economically. He noted that without deliberate efforts to support local businesses, the region’s growth will continue to exclude the very communities it is meant to uplift.
He further emphasised the need for engagement between community leaders, government institutions, and civil society organisations to create practical strategies that support local entrepreneurship. These include access to funding, skills development, mentorship, and fair opportunities to participate in the local economy.
“We are looking forward to engaging on how we can empower our local entrepreneurs,” Mbangu said. “Only then can we genuinely say that Rundu is a growing town.”
