Government vows action on Farm Duwib challenges
The government has pledged to address the pressing challenges facing the Hai//om community at Farm Duwib in the Otjozondjupa Region, with road access, housing, education and water identified as key priorities.
Speaking during a community engagement, Moses //Khumub, Deputy Minister in the Office of the Vice-President said the visit followed a letter from the community outlining the difficulties affecting residents of the resettlement farm.
The community's urgent need for a proper access road was highlighted, as poor infrastructure continues to affect the delivery of essential services and goods.
//Khumub said the engagement reflected the Eighth Administration's commitment to a “business unusual” approach, with government planning driven by communities rather than distant offices in Windhoek.
The Division Marginalised has deployed development planners to work at grassroots level with communities and traditional authorities to ensure local needs are captured in national planning and budgeting.
At Farm Duwib, the government identified decent housing, quality education and reliable water as immediate priorities. Water, the representative said, should also support community gardens to improve food security and strengthen local livelihoods. Commercial farmers in the area were urged to work with the Hai//om community through partnerships that could provide expertise, equipment and logistical support for local initiatives.
The community was also encouraged to prioritise education as a means of breaking the cycle of generational poverty. “Your letter did not fall on deaf ears. We have heard you and we have noted your priorities,” //Khumub said, adding that the Regional Council, Governor and Division Marginalised would work together to bring tangible relief to Farm Duwib. The representative also conveyed greetings from President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, reaffirming the government's commitment to integrating the needs of marginalised communities into national development planning.
