Khomas regional governor, Sam Shafaiishuna Nujoma (SSN), emphasises that Namibia’s land reform programme should not be seen just as a land redistribution effort, but as a national initiative to boost productivity, generate jobs, and enhance food security.
The Governor recently visited resettlement farms across Khomas region to engage local communities and learn about their challenges and opportunities. He emphasised that the government’s land reform program is designed to empower Namibians to be productive contributors to the economy, rather than just landowners.
In an interview with New Era, Lahja Nujoma (LN) emphasised that the success of resettlement farms relies not only on the government providing land but also on the vision, commitment, and effort of the farmers themselves.
LN: Hon. Governor, you recently visited resettlement farms in Khomas. What was the purpose of this visit?
SSN: The main purpose was to familiarise myself with the resettlement farms in the region. This was the second leg of my visits, focusing on the southeast of Khomas. I also visited Dordabis after receiving concerns from the local community there.
I met with residents, listened to their concerns, and I must say they are valid. A pressing issue is the rapid population growth, especially as retrenched workers from commercial farms return to settlements. The community is requesting land for both housing and agricultural purposes.
As chairperson of the Khomas Resettlement Committee, I will table these matters at our upcoming meeting and ensure they are followed up by the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform.
LN: What are some of the challenges most resettled farmers face?
SSN: Water scarcity is a major challenge. Many of the region’s boreholes and water infrastructures are outdated, some in urgent need of repair or replacement. Without reliable water, farming productivity is severely limited. Additionally, stock theft continues to pose a significant threat, undermining farmers’ efforts and livelihoods.
LN: What impressions did you get from the farms you visited?
SSN: I was particularly impressed with Farm Rustig. The resettled farmers there are treating agriculture as a business, not merely as a cultural activity. Their livestock is in excellent condition, and the farm is run almost like a commercial operation. This farmer is clearly meeting the government halfway, using the land productively and with vision.
We need more success stories like this. Unfortunately, not all farms are performing at this level. Some are being used more as communal areas rather than structured farming enterprises. Others, like a female farmer I met, have the commitment but face challenges such as water scarcity. My office will follow up to determine the best way we can assist them.
LN: What message do you have for resettled farmers who are still struggling?
SSN: I am still conducting visits and gathering information. This was only the fourth farm I have seen, so I cannot make broad generalisations yet. But what I can say is that resettlement is an opportunity, not an entitlement.
The government provides the land, but farmers must bring dedication, vision, and hard work. If the land is left idle or treated merely as a homestead, the purpose of the programme is undermined. We need farmers who adopt modern farming practices and turn their farms into productive enterprises.
LN: Critics argue that resettlement farms underperform compared to commercial farms. How do you respond?
SSN: It is true that some resettlement farms are not yet reaching their full potential. Many beneficiaries start with limited resources, lacking machinery, infrastructure, or technical knowledge. That is why government support through training and advisory services is critical.
However, success ultimately depends on the farmers themselves. Rustig shows it is possible: committed farmers can transform these farms into thriving businesses that support families, create jobs, and contribute to national food security.
LN: What is your broader vision for resettlement farming and the Khomas region?
SSN: My vision is for Khomas to become a productive region. As the most populated region in the country, we must harness our human capital to boost agriculture, create jobs, and improve livelihoods.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has tasked all governors with developing legacy projects. For Khomas, my office will soon announce initiatives aimed at turning the region into a hub of productivity. I aim to leave the legacy of a self-sustaining region that makes a meaningful contribution to national food security.
LN: How does land reform contribute to addressing inequality and unemployment?
SSN: Land reform is one of the most important policies to address historical imbalances and create economic opportunities. But redistribution alone is not enough. Productivity is key.
When farms are managed effectively, they provide livelihoods for families, create employment opportunities, stimulate local economies, and enhance food security. Land is an opportunity; what you do with it determines its true value.
LN: Any final message to Namibians regarding resettlement farming?
SSN: My appeal to all resettled farmers is to use the land productively. The government has invested significantly in acquiring these farms, and it is our duty to ensure they are not left idle.
We must build a culture of hard work, discipline, and innovation in agriculture. Resettlement farming can succeed if farmers see themselves as businesspeople, not just landholders. Every farm must contribute to national development.