Mariental: A delegation from the Aranos Town Council on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to Hardap Governor Riaan McNab at Mariental to discuss key projects and challenges facing the town.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the meeting was an opportunity for the councilors to outline their priorities and seek the governor's support. Governor McNab emphasized the importance of prioritizing the interests of residents and promoting selfless and ethical leadership. He stated, "Selfless leadership, ethical leadership, leadership with professional listening should be what you should work towards."
The delegation comprised Aranos town mayor Jacoba Viljoen, deputy mayor Anthea Van Zyl, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gerson Tjituara, management committee chairperson Lukas Gaweseb, and four council members. CEO Tjituara informed the governor about the need for assistance with road construction projects, highlighting that five roads identified in 2024 are still awaiting central government support. He stressed the significance of corporate social responsibility from construction companies working on national projects.
Tjituara also provided updates on the Omaheke-Hardap Road construction project, which is nearing completion with only a 30-kilometre stretch remaining. He mentioned that the completion of this project could bring potential benefits to the town. Furthermore, Tjituara discussed the reactivation of the Aranos Airstrip project, which he believes could boost economic activity. He recalled that during a 2024 visit by then Deputy Prime Minister John Mutorwa, it was mentioned that the project would be part of the central government's budget, but no progress has been made. Tjituara urged Governor McNab to investigate the matter as previous inquiries had been unfruitful.
In addition, the CEO highlighted the urgent need for assistance from the governor to secure sports facility funding from the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture before the financial year concludes. Aranos is scheduled for an upgrade in the 2025/2026 budget, and failing to access the funds this year would result in the allocation being redirected to another town. Tjituara also pointed out challenges such as youth unemployment and poor sanitation in informal settlements, noting that unemployment contributes to criminal activities in the town.
Governor McNab welcomed the visit and encouraged the council to work collaboratively to achieve their objectives, assuring them that he would look into the issues presented.