Lahja Nashuuta
Popular Democratic Movement legislator Rosa Mbinge-Tjeundo has urged the government to treat the Kunene region as a special case, citing a myriad of challenges confronting the region.
Mbinge-Tjeundo pointed to a dire lack of road infrastructure, a housing crisis and an absence of business opportunities as key challenges facing the region.
The former Opuwo mayor made these remarks during her maiden speech in Parliament last week. She highlighted the poor condition of the road between Terrace Bay and Möwe Bay as a particularly urgent concern.
“Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to travel with honourable Marius Sheya from Opuwo to Terrace Bay and Möwe Bay. Covering a mere 300 kilometres along the Skeleton Coast took us between nine to 12 hours due to poor road conditions and lack of network coverage,” Mbinge-Tjeundo said.
She emphasised that while Kunene is known for its breathtaking landscapes and untapped investment potential, which make it one of Namibia’s most valuable assets, the absence of proper road networks and railway infrastructure severely hinders its growth.
“I am committed to advocating for the improvement of transportation infrastructure to unlock the region’s full economic potential. Coming from the Kunene Region and having been entrusted by the Namibian people to represent them in this distinguished august House, I pledge to ensure that their voices are heard and their interests safeguarded,” she said.
Reviewing the national budget, Mbinge-Tjeundo stated that her party will closely monitor the implementation of planned ministerial programmes to ensure public resources are used efficiently and transparently for the benefit of all Namibians.
She also pointed to housing and sanitation as issues that require urgent attention.
“As democrats, we firmly believe that every Namibian deserves a place to call home. Given our expansive land resources, it is imperative that we develop sustainable housing solutions that provide all citizens with a dignified living environment,” she said.
A teacher by training, Mbinge-Tjeundo called for the establishment of open markets in towns to accommodate informal traders, especially those living in informal settlements.
“As informal traders continue to support countless Namibian households, protecting them must become a national priority. It is disheartening to witness hardworking single mothers and fathers being displaced from trading areas as though they are criminals when they are merely trying to earn an honest living,” she said.
She urged the government to strengthen the agricultural sector, and invest in value- addition to agricultural produce as a means of tackling poverty.
“Although agriculture remains a key national priority in Namibia, many people continue to live in poverty. This highlights a clear disconnect between policy focus and tangible economic outcomes for our people. I am increasingly concerned about Namibia’s high import levels, which may undermine local production and widen the trade deficit, posing long-term economic challenges.
“We must reduce our heavy reliance on imports, and take pride in producing what we need right here at home. It is crucial that we invest intentionally in our agricultural sector, and support our farmers. Doing so will ensure food security, boost the economy and build a healthier, more self-reliant nation.”
She then urged the government to address the issue of water pricing, especially considering recent substantial rainfall across the country.
“Namibians should not be burdened with high water costs. It is essential that the government negotiate with NamWater to reduce water tariffs,” she said.