Windhoek: Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Inge Zaamwani has expressed disappointment at the resignation of the former chairperson of the Meat Corporation of Namibia (Meatco) board.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Zamwaani formally responded to the resignation of Meatco Board Chairperson Sakaria Nghikembua in the National Assembly on Wednesday. She expressed disappointment in receiving his resignation mere days before a planned meeting between the government and the board officials to discuss matters affecting the meat enterprise.

'Despite mutual efforts, the parties were unable to find a suitable date and time to meet. We were looking to confirm a time for this coming Friday, thus we were therefore disappointed to receive the resignation letter of the chairman,' Zamwaani said.

Meatco has recently found itself in the midst of growing controversy, marked by governance challenges, financial struggles, and allegations of political interference that have dominated public conversations. However, the minister did not shed light on the internal conflicts or media speculation surrounding the chairperson's departure.

Zamwaani however emphasised the role Meatco plays in Namibia's agricultural sector, saying it is a critical public enterprise in the livestock and meat industry.

'Meatco's objectives are well aligned with the national agricultural agenda, particularly in promoting the interests of Namibian livestock producers in communal and commercial areas while striving to stabilise the red meat industry for the best interest of Namibia,' she stated.

Zamwaani further reiterated that the ministry remains committed to supporting the turnaround and sustainability of Meatco so it can continue to deliver on its mandate to the benefit of the Namibian people.