Suzith Tjitaura 

Swapo Party Member of Parliament Marta Itope has urged the government to intervene in the plight of farmworkers at Aussenkehr, who lack proper housing, potable water and sanitation.

She said during the budget debate in Parliament earlier last week while agriculture at Aussenkehr is a billion-dollar industry, farmworkers still live in harsh conditions, lacking access to clean water and sanitation.
“Residents fetch water from the river directly, which is often contaminated,” she said.
Itope said frequent fire breakouts also pose a significant threat to the community.

“Almost every month, a disastrous fire breaks out and destroys property due to the flammable reed used to construct houses, and the lack of fire stations nearby. The situation highlights more significant systemic issues, and raises questions about the responsibility of grape companies,” she said.
Itope said although healthcare is an essential service, the health facility at the farm is understaffed, which compromises the quality of healthcare delivery.

The lawmaker added: “This problem has been overdue for decades now. We have to prioritise improving the living and working conditions to ensure the well-being and dignity of all individuals involved in the industry. Fire-fighting vehicles should be sourced to curb the situation in Aussenkehr, and sanitation should be addressed.”
Further, the government should give production grants to small-scale farmers to assist them in purchasing fertilisers, chemicals and new grapes to plant in the uprooted fields, Itope proposed.

“It should be understood that, the production of grapes, dates and vegetables is particularly labour and capital-intensive. To ensure high productivity, certified seedlings need to be purchased from reputable suppliers outside the country,” she added.

She noted that a nation that cannot feed itself will forever remain vulnerable, urging all relevant ministries, agencies and stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the actual situation at the farm, and renew the agricultural sector.

-Nampa