Swakopmund: Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Calle Schlettwein, has reiterated the government's commitment to addressing the skewed land ownership in Namibia, emphasising that land reform remains a top priority both politically and economically. Speaking at the opening of the ongoing management review workshop for quarter three 2024/25 financial year at Swakopmund, the minister acknowledged that the longstanding inequalities in land distribution have not been adequately addressed, and the promise of correcting past injustices is yet to be fulfilled.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Schlettwein highlighted the need to significantly increase resettlement efforts, while improving post-resettlement support measures to ensure meaningful outcomes for beneficiaries. Although no farms were acquired during the third quarter, the ministry reached agreements to acquire two farms in the Omaheke and Hardap regions. These farms, with a combined size of 11,192 hectares, will be used to resettle previously disadvantaged and landless Namibians.

Furthermore, the ministry, in collaboration with stakeholders, successfully repatriated and resettled individuals of Batswana descent at the Gam Settlement. 'A significant milestone was the establishment of communal land for the //Khomanin People in the Khomas Region. This initiative restores dignity and provides space for the group to freely practice their traditions and customs,' the minister said.

Six beneficiaries from Omaheke, Hardap, Kunene, Kavango East, Otjozondjupa, and Ohangwena regions were also resettled on farms in Hardap, Kunene, and Otjozondjupa regions. The ministry also reported progress in its monitoring and compliance efforts, during which a total of 416 lease agreements were monitored for adherence to regulations, while 5,870 customary land rights were registered nationwide. A total of 33 leasehold rights were issued and 64 illegal fences were removed to ensure equitable land access.

The minister emphasised the importance of increasing resettlement efforts and ensuring that support measures for beneficiaries are robust and impactful. 'While progress has been made, there is still much to be done to achieve equitable land ownership and sustainable land use in Namibia,' he concluded.