Obrein Simasiku
Omuthiya-The high poverty rate in Oshikoto that stands at 42.6 percent remains as one of the region’s most difficult challenges despite poverty alleviation schemes such as pension and social grants.
Oshikoto Governor Henock Kankoshi has now called for a proactive approach to reduce the number of poverty-stricken households.
“Although, we have mechanisms in place to alleviate the plight of the poor and the vulnerable and mobilising resources at our disposal to render the necessary assistance to the affected communities, we should in the New Year, make it a point to educate them on how to be self-reliant and self-sustainable.
“Engaging in more productive activities and creating self-employment opportunities are just some of the tools to fight poverty instead of begging and later succumbing to destitution,” Kankoshi advised in his New Year message address.
Against that backdrop, Kankoshi described 2017 as a success for the region and noted the assistance rendered by the Ministry of Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare in drilling two water boreholes in Nehale Iya Mpingana Constituency as a notable achievement.
In addition, Kankoshi said, this year he would like to see an improved economy as well as more developments in the health, education and infrastructure sectors.
“By accelerating these sectors, it is definite that we could create employment which eventually means poverty will also be reduced. Especially in the fields of mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, retail and the fast growing and diverse small and medium enterprises (SMEs) sector.
“I would like to see this trend continue in 2018, as well as see more focus placed on the manufacturing and industrialisation sector,” Kankoshi said.
Furthermore, he added, the region’s political sphere remains peaceful, stable and provides a conducive environment for investment.
“However, I would like to urge our political leaders to exercise more tolerance for diverse opinions, to remain united and to forge ahead in unison so that we build this Namibian House,” he stated.
He also urged farmers to remain hopeful and continue cultivating their fields.