Africa-Press – Namibia. Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has praised the development progress made in the Oshana region, saying government investments are improving the lives of many people.
Speaking during the 36th Independence Day celebrations at Oshakati stadium on Saturday, Ngurare said developments in rural electrification, water supply, roads and health facilities have made a positive impact on communities.
He added that government institutions continue to work together to meet the needs of the people.
The Prime Minister also stressed that capital projects across the country must benefit local companies. He commended the local authorities of Oshakati, Ongwediva and Ondangwa for promoting local economic empowerment and formalising informal settlements.
“We must ensure that development projects create opportunities for our local businesses and contribute to economic empowerment,” Ngurare said.
While acknowledging that challenges still exist, he highlighted several government initiatives aimed at supporting citizens.
These include subsidised tertiary education and the collateral-free National Youth Development Fund, which helps young people start businesses.
Ngurare also revealed plans to extend the Etaka Canal to Lake Ponona, a project expected to support irrigation and livestock farming in the southern parts of the Oshana region.
Meanwhile, Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge said independence should not only be remembered as a past event, but as an ongoing journey that requires everyone to play a role in building the country.
“Independence is a continuous journey that calls on all of us to contribute to nation building, economic growth and social progress,” Iipinge added.
He further said his region remains committed to improving development and service delivery, while empowering communities, especially the youth, women and vulnerable groups.
Chief Herman Ndilimani Iipumbu of the Uukwambi Traditional Authority said, “We thank the government for bringing independence closer to every Namibian, so that our people can take part in this important day.”
Iipumbu urged Namibians, especially the youth and children, to understand the country’s history and the true meaning of independence.
“Young people must learn where we come from and understand the sacrifices that were made for our freedom,” he said.
He also highlighted the role of traditional authorities in the journey to independence, saying they played a key role in guiding communities, preserving culture, supporting the liberation struggle and promoting unity.
Oshana National Liberation Veterans’ Association coordinator Martha Eelu led the veterans in singing liberation songs at the event.
Many veterans sang with deep emotion, reflecting on the difficult times they spent in the bushes and in Angola during the struggle for Namibia’s independence.
Eelu also appealed to the government to increase the support given to veterans, saying the rising cost of living has made it harder for them to meet their daily needs.
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