Newly sworn-in National Council member, Israel Hukura, used his maiden speech in Parliament to highlight serious problems affecting rural communities, especially in the Otjozondjupa Region, which he represents.

Hukura said rural dwellers are struggling with land rights, water problems, and youth unemployment, calling for urgent action from lawmakers.

One of his main concerns is the lack of land security for families living and working on farms.

He pointed out the situation at Farm Okamuru in the Omatako constituency, where he said elders are being mistreated by the farm owners and are not even regarded as citizens in their own country.

He added that many former and current farm workers in the region are facing social unrest, unfair treatment, and a lack of clear land tenure.

This has caused stress and instability, especially among older residents.

"They are to go through treatments such as being asked not to enter those farms during night time or after hours; their animals are taken to other plots. They can't even get these animals, and their houses are even in a dilapidated state, becoming an issue to maintain them."

On the issue of water, Hukura said that many rural communities are using old, broken pipes and damaged boreholes.

He also raised the challenges faced by youth and women in rural areas, saying the lack of jobs is forcing many young people into drug and alcohol abuse as they try to escape poverty and hopelessness.

His remarks drew quiet attention in the chamber, with several members nodding in agreement that rural Namibia needs help, and now.