KEETMANSHOOP – Notwithstanding a snub by the Landless People’s Movement, //Kharas governor Aletha Frederick on Tuesday delivered her ultimate State of the Region Address.

A day earlier, LPM’s //Kharas  Regional Council chairperson, Joseph Isaacks, declined an invitation from Frederick to attend the Sora.

She was unfazed.

“It is namely to report on the development programmes of the national, regional, and local governments, offices, agencies, and captains of industry within the region during the period under review,” Frederick said.

She said it is her constitutional right to report on the progress and challenges the region encountered over the past financial year.

“This address is of paramount importance, as it presents us with a vital opportunity to reflect on our achievements, confront our challenges, and chart a course towards future success for the //Kharas region,” she said.

She also informed those present that the essence of Sora lies in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

Economy 

When reflecting on the economic potential of the region, she regarded it as one that shines as Namibia’s southern gem and economic powerhouse, driving the nation’s economy forward with its wealth of natural resources.

“The region is characterised by its significant economic strengths, primarily anchored in mining, fishing, agriculture, and tourism, which has positioned it as a key player in propelling Namibia towards economic prosperity,” she emphasised.

She went on to state that these sectors have historically underpinned the region’s economic framework, contributing substantially to the GDP while providing numerous employment opportunities for residents.

“With the development of green hydrogen, oil, and gas and the much anticipated Neckertal Dam green scheme development, //Kharas stands at a crucial juncture in its history, positioned to harness its economic potential to uplift its people while addressing the longstanding challenges of Namibia as a whole,” said the governor.

Green hydrogen

With the emergence of green hydrogen and advancements in oil and gas development, Lüderitz is poised to become one of the fastest-growing towns in the our country. “Council has commenced with the construction of a Salmon factory, which is projected to create 600 jobs once fully-operational,” she reported. Frederick further in her Sora also articulated that, in addition, the town has been allocated N$9 million to initiate its transformation programme. “This initiative aims to prepare Lüderitz for the industrial developments anticipated in the region, particularly due to the expected influx from the oil and gas industry as well as hydrogen projects,” she said.

The governor then called on stakeholders from various spheres to navigate this path towards progress and prosperity and strive together to create a future where every citizen of the region is enabled to thrive and prosper.

LPM’s rejection

Meanwhile, Isaacks, who is also the Keetmanshoop Urban constituency councillor, informed residents at a press conference Monday of the latest issues affecting their livelihood.

On the termination of the three Swapo councillors’ membership at //Kharas Regional Council pending the court’s pronouncement matter, Isaacks stood by the decision.

“The councillors refused to avail themselves to be elected to the council’s management committee and caused the council not to have a management committee since June 2023,” he added.

The chairperson also said: “The matter was taken to court on 9 February 2024, and an interim relief agreed not to implement the resolution of the council and allowed the councillors to assume duty and let the pay of the councillors continue.”

-sklukowski@nepc.com.na