The Zambezi region is in the grip of a severe drought that has wreaked havoc on the livelihoods of its residents, governor Lawrence Sampofu said yesterday. 

The region has been experiencing below-average rainfall for several years, with a harsh impact on the farming and livestock-dependent population.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by New Era management, he expressed deep concern over the situation.

“The drought is taking a heavy toll on us. We received minimal rainfall in November last year, which has had a devastating effect on our farmers. Our once-mighty river has shrunk to a mere two-metres deep, highlighting the severity of the crisis. Even our flood-prone areas are bone dry,” he said. 

The governor also raised concern about livestock theft, especially from neighbouring Zambia, which is putting additional pressure on the already-strained resources of the region. 

Police in the region last year reported that a total of 824 cattle, valued at more than N$4.94 million, were stolen between April 2022 and April 2023. 

Sampofu said the theft continues unabated, but Namibian authorities have started clearing riverbeds and areas close to the border, and have a commitment from Zambia to do the same. 

“From last year, cattle close to N$3 million were stolen. It is very worrisome. As for the Botswana border, we are safe,” he said.

In May, Namibia declared a state of emergency following the worst drought that the country has experienced in 100 years, and government allocated N$825 million for the drought relief programme in the 2024/2025 financial year.

Despite these challenges, Sampofu noted that the Zambezi region has shown resilience, with a growing population, which further emphasises the need for further development of the region.

-prisscillamukokobi@gmaill.com