Schlettwein wants inequality addressed through land

ELLANIE SMITWINDHOEKLand reform minister Calle Schlettwein has said that land matters must be seen in the light of correcting injustices of the past, but also to create economic opportunities for disadvantaged citizens with the aim to diminish inequality.“These matters are sensitive, demanding and emotive, hence our resolve to equip all regional resettlement committees with the necessary land governance policy framework to manage the issues in a fair and transparent manner.”Schlettwein was speaking at an induction workshop for the newly appointed chairpersons of regional resettlement committees held at Otjiwarongo. Chairpersons were appointed for the committees of Otjozondjupa, Omaheke, //Karas, Hardap, Kavango East, Ohangwena and Oshikoto for the next three years.He said these committees in all 14 regions were established in accordance with the Agricultural (Commercial) Land Reform Act to assist the Land Reform Advisory Commission.The second national land conference held in 2018 produced a comprehensive set of resolutions which must be implemented, he said.“One of the important steps is to put these resolutions in a legal framework. The outcome will be a land bill which combines the current Commercial and Communal Land Reform Acts and includes provisions giving effect to the relevant resolutions of the second land conference.” Demand and supplySchlettwein said because of Namibia's skewed land ownership structure, the legitimate expectation is for the government to deliver land reform that is fair, justified, economically viable, transparent and sustainable.He said the ministry was aware of the acute demand for land but the supply of land remained low and they must ensure that the most vulnerable are not left out of the programme.Schlettwein further said that the committee chairpersons are part of the process in ensuring that the allocated land is utilised productively to contribute to household food security.He said 15.6% of Namibia's labour force works in agriculture and about 70% of the population is directly dependent on the agricultural sector. “We are therefore convinced that agriculture holds the best potential to induce economic growth into our ailing economy and that agriculture creates rewarding economic opportunities for many hitherto poor sections of our population.”Schlettwein said allocating land for agricultural activity was the first step in this process. “The second and following steps must be support to farmers to enhance their means and ability of production.” Mechanised agricultureHe added that the ministry will roll out a significant African Development Bank-funded projects through which farmers will receive assistance to mechanise crop production. Farmers will also receive improved inputs like seeds and fertiliser, as well as improved ploughing and extension services for crop, horticultural and livestock production. A further important project is the rollout of a flexible land tenure regime, which would allow Namibians in informal settlements to buy property in an affordable manner.He said this would help to accelerate the provision of low-cost housing.

Schlettwein wants inequality addressed through land

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Namibian Sun 2026-05-21

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Schlettwein wants inequality addressed through land

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Namibian Sun 2026-05-21

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