Under its Cash and Food for Work Programme, Okakarara Constituency Councillor Uzeraije Tjazerua engaged volunteers to clear bushes along the shoulders of communal roads to improve visibility for motorists and pedestrians.

Speaking at Okatoto Village, Tjazerua said clearing the bushes contributes to road safety, cleanliness, development and the overall well-being of rural communities.

"Overgrown bushes around the roads, communal areas and public facilities can create serious challenges in our community. They can provide hiding places for criminals and increase the risk of obstructing the visibility along the roads and pathways, and they also contribute to an unhealthy and unsafe environment and accidents."

The councillor challenged more communities and traditional leaders to join the initiative as shared responsibility towards basic and safe roads.

"We remain committed to working with your community and relevant stakeholders to improve the living conditions of the people in our villages. Clean, safe and well-maintained roads in our villages are a reflection of a community that cares about its presence and also prepares responsibly for the future."

Volunteers were paid N$500 each.

The Food or Cash for Work programme is a N$10 million budgeted initiative by the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development to provide temporary income support to vulnerable households and strengthen community resilience.