Aron Mushaukwa
Social welfare minister Doreen Sioka has cautioned beneficiaries of the ministry’s income generating activities (IGAs) to use the equipment and materials properly or else the ministry will repossess them.
Sioka made these remarks on Monday in a speech read on her behalf during the handover of materials and equipment to the value of N$218 749 to eight beneficiaries in the Zambezi region.
About N$63 010 worth of materials and equipment was funded by the African Union Commission (AUC) towards an individual project, identified to be productive but disadvantaged.
“We are aware of the mismanagement of IGAs material and equipment in some cases. Thus, the ministry has the right to repossess the equipment, including the ones procured with the assistance from AU, should beneficiaries mismanage the materials and equipment by not using it for the intended purpose,” cautioned Sioka.
She further called on the beneficiaries to work hard and ensure they produce tangible results.
“Some people benefitted through these initiatives but their IGAs did not flourish – and some are no longer functioning. I am, therefore, encouraging you to work very hard, market your business, produce quality products and please remain in business,” she said.
Imelda Mahulilo from the Kongola constituency, who owns a gardening project and was the recipient of the equipment funded by the AUC, could not hide her excitement for being chosen to receive the equipment. She received, among others, a water tank, a water pump, wheelbarrows, rakes and spades.
“I am pleased with the equipment I received; they are going to make a big difference. The only problem I am facing is where to sell my produce. My regular customers are those in the villages, but they don’t buy enough. I wish we had a secured market where to sell our harvest,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Vincent Kabozu, who owns a chicken project and received, among others, a chicken wire, poultry feeders and shade nets, stated the materials received are a blessing and will add value to the business.
“The help I received from the ministry will make my work easier. I have secured customers, especially those who cook pap in the market,” he said.