Africa-Press – Namibia. A recent article on growing hunger in the Tobias Hainyeko constituency has led to a life-changing donation from Namib Mills.
The food company has committed to donating 100 bags of 10kg to 25kg of maize meal to help feed struggling residents.
The donation follows New Era’s pre-election coverage published last month, which highlighted the deep hunger crisis in the area.
During an interview, Tobias Hainyeko constituency councillor Christopher Likuwa painted a heartbreaking picture of the daily struggles faced by his people.
“People come here crying – hunger. You must act on hunger. This seat is hot. You can’t see the smoke, but I have been feeling the fire. Unlike what people may think from the outside, it’s not about following a programme. Life itself writes the directive. When people knock, crying for help, you don’t check a programme of the day – you act,” Likuwa said.
He revealed that more than 8 000 people were recently removed from the government’s food aid list, leaving only 800 beneficiaries.
“Imagine, more than 8 000 people removed from the food programme. That’s not a small number,” he lamented.
He continued: “Now, they come to my office every day, asking for food. But there’s no food at the office. Sometimes you’re forced to dig into your pocket to help.”
One such day was when Leonarda Mutaneka (36) and his partner Otilie Nghuumbilemo (50) came in, desperate for help after going three days without eating. Both are unemployed and on chronic medication. Nghuumbilemo said they were once on the Harambee Food Bank list but were later removed.
“We started collecting firewood to survive. But I had to stop due to health problems,” said Mutaneka.
Their story is just one of many that touched the hearts of Namib Mills staff.
Pledge
In response, Namib Mills has pledged support through its long-standing community initiative, the Top Score 7-a-Side football tournament. Proceeds from the 25th edition of the tournament was used to purchase the maize meal bags now being donated to the Tobias Hainyeko constituency.
“This maize meal is more than just food,” said Diego Talaya, brand manager of Top Score. “It’s nourishment, warmth and hope for a better tomorrow. In times like these, a simple act like sharing a meal can mean everything.”
According to Namib Mills, the donation will support over 3 000 individuals in the constituency.
The maize meal was collected with the help of participating football teams in the Top Score tournament. Teams went beyond the pitch, each contributing bags of maize meal ranging from 10kg to 25kg, which were then pooled together and handed over last Friday.
“As we celebrate 25 years of the Top Score 7-a-Side Tournament, we’re reminded that our impact extends far beyond the football field,” Talaya added. “We’re building a legacy of care, unity and upliftment.”
Tobias Hainyeko, home to over 65 000 people, is one of Windhoek’s largest constituencies. While many residents face food insecurity and poverty, the recent donation has sparked hope.
“This is not just a donation. It is a lifeline,” said Likuwa during the handover ceremony.
“I thank Namib Mills for responding to our people’s cries. This gesture shows that the private sector can play a powerful role in uplifting the community,” the politician said.
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