Africa-Press – Namibia. In his first 100 days in office, Oshana governor Hofni Iipinge has implemented community-driven projects, infrastructure improvements and youth empowerment.
The governor said he visited every constituency since being appointed by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on 1 July.
He met with government ministries, traditional leaders and local authorities to identify obstacles and open doors for growth.
He added that there has already been noticeable advancement in youth development, health, education and infrastructure because of these partnerships.
Through a public-private cooperation, the health ministry is planning to build a long-awaited district hospital in Ondangwa.
This project is anticipated to relieve pressure on the area’s current facilities.
To stop wastewater overflows, the town has finished 90% of its emergency containment plan.
In addition, it is building a state-of-the-art sewer treatment plant.
With the building of the new Omatando Water Tower, the renovation of the main Ongwediva Water Tower and the growth of the Open Market, Ongwediva has also seen several noteworthy milestones.
The town’s infrastructure is being further strengthened by ongoing road and stormwater improvement initiatives.
In the meantime, more than N$149 million has been spent in Oshakati to improve informal settlements, including Okandjengedi, Uupindi and Evululuko.
The money will be used to service new residential additions as well as water and sewer infrastructure at Ehenye, which is a significant step towards better living circumstances.
“These projects are about more than just infrastructure. They are about restoring dignity and making sure that every citizen benefits from development,” Iipinge stressed.
He continued that construction on major roads, including DR3607 (Oshakati-Ompundja-Engombe-Naluvanda) and DR4103 (Okatana-Amutanga) will commence soon, following discussions with the Ministry of Works and Transport.
Healthcare services are also set to receive a boost, with ZIARA Energy and Investment (Pty) Ltd pledging to construct and donate a public health centre with staff housing in Ompundja constituency.
This marks the region’s first public-private healthcare partnership.
Youth empowerment is a key focus for Iipinge.
Through the National Youth Development Fund, three Oshana enterprises received N$839 000 to launch ventures in aquaculture, recycling and media, creating over 20 jobs.
Oshana also secured N$290 000 from the National Youth Council Forum Fund to boost youth programmes.
In Okatyali, an eight-hectare youth-led agricultural project is set to generate 15 permanent and 50 seasonal jobs.
“Our young people have the drive to shape Oshana’s future. They just need opportunities,” Iipinge said.
Agricultural initiatives are also gaining momentum.
The long-closed Ondangwa Tannery will reopen under Desert Planet Industries, creating jobs and boosting local production.
Meanwhile, seven new earth dams and upgrades to the Oshakati Water Treatment Plant aim to improve water supply across Oshana, Ohangwena and Oshikoto.
Community projects are thriving too.
Valombola VTC is refurbishing over 6 900 broken school desks and chairs with support from FNB, GIPF, MTC, Nedbank and Lüderitz Waterfront.
A Food Parcel Drive has reached 50 vulnerable families, and N$500 000 in funding has been secured for further initiatives.
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