OSHIKOTO REGION — Oshigambo, a settlement in the Oshikoto region, is set for an upgrade to town status, confirmed Oniipa Constituency regional councillor Vilho Nuunyango. This development is part of the Rural Development Policy established in 2006, aiming to enhance rural economies and living conditions.
According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), During a formal hearing about the proposed upgrade on Monday, Nuunyango emphasized the democratic right of people to express their views on development matters. He mentioned that the establishment of Oshigambo as a town could happen ‘as soon as possible’ once administrative issues are resolved in the 2023/2024 financial year. Nuunyango highlighted the Rural Development Policy as a significant tool for poverty reduction and improving the livelihoods of rural communities.
However, the announcement followed objections from a concerned group of 47 members from Oshigambo. The group’s representative, Jona Mushelenga, pointed out the lack of proper consultation on the matter by stakeholders and expressed concerns over the potential environmental and socio-economic impacts on local communities. Mushelenga raised questions about the sustainability of the well-being of local communities post-upgrade.
Further concerns were voiced regarding the ability of Oshigambo residents to adapt to town living standards, citing high unemployment and underemployment rates. According to Mushelenga, only a small fraction of residents could cope with such a transition, with the majority being disadvantaged. He also highlighted the issue of water scarcity in the area, noting plans to dig a new water point as a solution, given the unreliability of the current water supply from NamWater.
Mushelenga, on behalf of the concerned group, requested that the decision to upgrade Oshigambo to a town undergo further scrutiny. The group trusts that the Oshikoto Regional Council will recognize and address their significant concerns.