Africa-Press – Namibia. Khorixas Constituency Councillor Sebastiaan !Gobs, has highlighted education, regional unity, and direct engagement with communities as the cornerstones of his leadership.
Speaking as part of New Era’s pre-election coverage through which regional councillors reflect on their terms in office, !Gobs says the proudest achievement of his years in office has been helping hundreds of young people pursue higher education by using his constituency funds to pay their registration fees.
!Gobs has served 15 years in office in different periods since 2004.
He explained that while many constituencies use their N$250 000 allocation for infrastructure projects, he chose to invest directly in education — a decision he says has created hope for families across the constituency
“I gave sponsorship to everyone who applied and qualified. I did not leave out anyone. If students are given a chance, they can come back and help develop Khorixas and Kunene,” he said.
The councillor described Khorixas Constituency as vast and challenging. Despite the size, he made efforts to be present and listen to residents’ concerns.
He said in just one area, 28 households requested electricity and sanitation services. Although his party, the UDF, is in opposition, !Gobs emphasised the need for unity across Kunene’s seven constituencies when it comes to regional planning.
“No matter whether we are from the same political party or different political parties, we have to plan for the development of this region together,” he stressed.
The councillor admitted that water shortages and prolonged drought remain his greatest worry. He said many farmers have lost livestock and migrated to urban areas, leaving farms abandoned.
Most complaints related to water, electricity, and farm roads. He called restoration of the directorate of rural water supply in Khorixas to serve farmers directly.
!Gobs also expressed concern about poor roads in Kunene, which only has a handfull of tarred routes. Gravel roads, he said, are worn out and need urgent re-gravelling. He welcomed the ongoing project to upgrade the Swakopmund-Uis-Khorixas road, but urged that more roads be considered for upgrading.
Despite financial constraints !Gobs said he worked quietly to support projects and residents with whatever resources were available. He acknowledged that rural electrification and sanitation funds from national ministries are a drop in the ocean once divided among 14 regions, and seven constituencies in Kunene.
Yet, he insisted, he focused on using his influence to channel available resources where they could make the most difference.
“Most of the things I was doing behind the scene,” he said, pointing to donations and smaller support projects he facilitated for communities.
Above all, !Gobs said education support remains the highlight of his tenure, because it empowers the next generation.
As his current term draws to a close, the veteran politician said expressed pride over what was achieved despite the many hurdles. His hope is for a better allocation of resources so that all constituencies – regardless of political affiliation – can benefit equally.
“Let the cake be cut, maybe if not equally, at least reasonably,” he remarked.
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