Minister Sankwasa Leads High-Level Meeting to Address Zambezi Separatism
By TUW
Government leaders and traditional authorities in the Zambezi Region have intensified efforts to address rising political tensions linked to secessionist demands, following a high-level engagement held in Katima Mulilo on Friday.
The meeting was led by the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa, and brought together the governor of the Zambezi Region, the mayor of Katima Mulilo, members of the Katima Mulilo Town Council Management Committee, and the Zambezi Regional Council Management Committee. Leaders from the region’s four traditional authorities were also in attendance, alongside the head of regional police operations and the minister’s special advisor.
Discussions focused on concerns surrounding secessionist activities and growing tribal divisions in the region. Sankwasa reiterated government’s position against any attempts to revive separatist politics, stating that such agendas undermine national unity and distort the historical contribution of the Zambezi people to Namibia’s liberation struggle.
The meeting follows a series of protests staged by the United Democratic Party (UDP) during the past year, in which the party called for the separation of the former Caprivi from Namibia. On several occasions, the UDP submitted petitions to authorities. The most recent protest, held in December, was rejected by the Katima Mulilo mayor, who cited concerns that it coincided with a peaceful demonstration by local residents and traditional leaders who called on the Namibian government to ban or restrict the party’s gatherings in the region.
Authorities say continued engagement with community leaders and stakeholders remains key to maintaining peace, stability and unity in the Zambezi Region.
