Omusati governor maps out regional priorities

Newly appointed Omusati governor Immanuel Shikongo delivered his inaugural state of the region address last week in Outapi, detailing government achievements, ongoing projects and development priorities across key sectors.In a wide-ranging address, Shikongo announced that the agriculture, fisheries, water and land reform ministry has drilled and rehabilitated over 20 boreholes in various constituencies, invested over N$135 million in upgrading Outapi and Olushandja water purification plants, and supported food security efforts through subsidies to over 14 600 farmers.The Etunda Irrigation Scheme produced 2 004 tonnes of maize valued at N$13 million and will soon launch a 1 000-cattle feedlot, he added. Meanwhile, Debmarine Namibia’s support has helped the University of Namibia's Ogongo campus expand rice cultivation to seven hectares.Among the region’s educational achievements, Shikongo said government invested N$30 million in constructing classroom blocks in 15 schools. “Over 1 500 youths were trained in soft skills to combat HIV and social issues, while 51 income-generating projects were supported. Sports development received N$7.6 million for Okahao stadium construction and additional investments in Ruacana and school renovations,” he added. Challenges and development Shikongo said a new clinic in Oshikulufitu was constructed at a cost of N$19.4 million. However, the region is grappling with a malaria outbreak, with 3 755 confirmed cases and 17 fatalities, he added. The governor's office is also working closely with the health ministry to prioritise maternal and neonatal health and expand access to universal healthcare, he noted. Moreover, Outapi, Okahao, Ruacana, Oshikuku and Tsandi local authorities collectively invested over N$100 million in urban land servicing, housing, roads and sanitation, the governor said.Additionally, 133 pit latrines were constructed across rural communities. Electrification projects valued at over N$40 million are also underway.The governor noted that the region experienced severe flooding "that displaced the Otjihitua community and disrupted education for over 33 000 learners."He commended national disaster response efforts and underlined the importance of prioritising infrastructure development to mitigate future disasters.He also expressed concern over slow implementation of key projects such as the Outapi Sports Complex and Epalela-Onesi-Tsandi road upgrades.“I call for full involvement of all stakeholders to ensure timely execution, monitoring and reporting on government programmes and projects. Together, we can grow the regional economy and uplift the living standards of our people,” Shikongo said.

Omusati governor maps out regional priorities

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-04

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Omusati governor maps out regional priorities

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Namibian Sun 2025-08-04

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