RUNDU – Kavango East Regional Council chairperson Damian Maghambayi says there is a need to take account of the size and population of the Kavango East and increase the number of the region’s constituencies as they have not been revised in many years.
The regional authorities suggested that Mukwe constituency be split into two, Mashare into two and Rundu Urban into three constituencies to bring the total to 10 constituencies.
Maghambayi said despite the vastness of the region, only Rundu Urban will be divided into two constituencies and the others will remain untouched.
In total, he argued that the region’s rapid growth demands a reassessment of the existing constituencies and placed the responsibility to consult the 5th Boundary and Delimitation Commission and central government on the shoulder of the new governor Julius Hamunyera
Hambyuka.
“We have already submitted a proposal to the 5th Boundary and Delimitation Commission last year to consider splitting some constituencies to improve service delivery and governance. However, to date, we have not received a response,” he said while welcoming the new governor last week.
“We ask for your intervention, honourable governor, in ensuring that this matter is given the attention it deserves. Proper demarcation will allow for better access to services and ensure that all residents of Kavango East receive the support they need,’’ he said.
Maghambayi noted that Hambyuka’s appointment comes at a time the region is confronted with several challenges, many of which have persisted for years.
“Poverty, unemployment, crime, and the lack of essential infrastructure are some of the obstacles we face. Our region is vast, with a growing population, yet many areas remain underserved in terms of basic services such as feeder roads, water supply, and access to quality education and healthcare,” he said.
“As we know, these challenges are not easy to overcome, but I have faith that with your leadership, we can make meaningful progress.
There is no doubt that your vision and energy will inspire us all to come together as a unified community with a common purpose: to ensure the people of Kavango East have access to the opportunities and resources they need to thrive,’’ he noted.
Maghambayi said it was also crucial for them as inhabitants of the region to recognize the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing these challenges.
He urged collaboration efforts from both within the regional council and with other stakeholders, to find innovative solutions to the issues that impact the people’s daily lives.
“This region is rich in potential, but we cannot unlock that potential without proper infrastructure, such as roads, water, and housing.
These are not just logistical concerns; they are matters of life and death, as we have seen with the tragic incidents of people dying due to lack of access to clean water or through human-wildlife conflicts,’’ he shared.
He said many Kavango East communities still rely on the Okavango River for water, a situation that not only limits access but also puts people at risk due to frequent conflicts with wild animals. This, among other issues, must be addressed as a matter of urgency.
Furthermore, the region’s chairperson appealed to all residents of Kavango East to embrace this new era with open hearts and minds.
“Let us work hand-in-hand with our new governor, offering constructive criticism and support that will help build a brighter future for all. I urge you all to set aside any divisions and focus on the unity of purpose that will drive the progress of our region.
We must do away with secret meetings and backstabbing, and advocate a unified approach that will uplift this region and improve the lives of all its people,” he said.