The Governor of the Otjozondjupa Region, John ||Khamuseb has engaged with communities in Okakarara, Coblenz, Okamatapati and Okondjatu ahead of the State of the Region Address.
These grassroots engagements are aimed at assessing living conditions, service delivery challenges and development opportunities.
||Khamuseb said communities have a high interest in charcoal production.
"The only complaint the people have is the high cost of charcoal permits, as well as the high production costs that are ultimately passed on to the end user. They therefore need some relief in this regard. As far as infrastructure development is concerned, the oxidation ponds must be completed, the sewage pumps must be made functional, and the entire town must be connected to the central sewer line."
The governor also raised concerns about the living conditions of learners at Coblenz Combined School, where several classrooms lack adequate tables, chairs, and mattresses.
Some learners reportedly sleep on the floor due to broken beds.
In response, ||Khamuseb indicated that he would engage the VTCs to assist with the repair of beds and lockers.
Otjozondjupa Regional Council Chairperson Paulus Nekundi promised to look into the matter.
“By 19 May, the process of procurement kicked off, including several schools in all circuits. We have four circuits in the region, and Coblenz is one of them. It's only that at some time we know how procurement is.”
Youth development featured prominently during the consultations, and they were encouraged to take advantage of opportunities such as the Youth Development Fund, which remains open for applications.
Addressing residents in Okamatapati, Nekundi emphasised the importance of community participation in development initiatives.
“Therefore, it's very important that we introduce our children to these different opportunities that the government provides. So, therefore, let's use these opportunities. It's my call that we must provide information to the people that need it.”
Calls have been made for the return of health extension workers, which the community says improved access to healthcare at the grassroots level.