Africa-Press – Namibia. Vice President Lucia Witbooi says the //Kharas region has evolved from a historically marginalised area into a dynamic and strategic economic hub, reflecting government’s continued commitment to inclusive development and regional integration.
She made the remarks last weekend when delivering the keynote address at the 36th Independence Day celebrations hosted in Karasburg.
Witbooi, reading a speech on behalf of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, quoted: “Our independence was achieved through the courage, resilience and sacrifices of Namibia’s brave sons and daughters, under the leadership of the Founding President and Father of the Namibian Nation, His Excellency Dr Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma.”
She said youth empowerment remains central to government policy, urging young people in the //Kharas Region and beyond to take advantage of opportunities offered through the National Youth Development Fund to improve their livelihoods and actively participate in economic development.
Reflecting on development in the southern region, Witbooi said //Kharas has recorded significant progress across key sectors, including the expansion of export-oriented agriculture along the Orange River, particularly grape production in Aussenkehr, as well as agro-processing linked to the Naute and Neckartal dam projects. She also highlighted growth in mining, fisheries and tourism.
She further noted that major infrastructure investments have strengthened connectivity, service delivery and institutional capacity, while development has increasingly reached smaller settlements through improved water supply, sanitation, electrification and road networks.
On health care, she said access has improved through an expanding network of clinics and health facilities across the region.
“Positioned within the Lüderitz–Aus Development Corridor, the region is now entering a new phase of industrialisation driven by large-scale renewable energy and green hydrogen initiatives, which are expected to accelerate economic growth, create employment and reinforce the //Kharas Region’s role as a key contributor to Namibia’s sustainable development trajectory,” she said.
However, the Vice President acknowledged that despite progress since Independence, the region still faces structural challenges, including limited value addition and industrial activity, as well as persistent gaps in water, sanitation and housing, compounded by fiscal constraints.
She said government is responding through key projects, including infrastructure upgrades in Grünau, water expansion in Ariamsvlei, rehabilitation of water systems in Noordoewer and Aussenkehr, and the servicing of plots in Aus.
Witbooi concluded by thanking residents of the region, particularly those from the Karasburg East constituency, for their strong turnout at the Independence Day celebrations.
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