Mashi:Chief Nfumu Joseph Tembwe Mayuni III of the Mashi Traditional Authority in the Zambezi Region has expressed concerns over the persistent poverty affecting his communities, attributing it to a lack of equitable participation in government decision-making processes.

According to Namibia Press Agency, during a speech delivered on his behalf at the 29th Tulikonge Cultural Festival in Choi, Chief Mayuni stated that the lack of potable water, electricity, and other essential social services continues to plague the region. He emphasized the particular hardship faced by communities along the Lizauli-Singalamwe stretch due to unreliable water supply, citing inadequate maintenance of boreholes as a significant issue.

The chief also highlighted the limited access to electricity, describing it as a luxury for many, particularly for inland communities such as Sibbinda, Makanga, Masida, and Sachona, which are distant from the local river system.

Education remains a critical area of focus, with Chief Mayuni acknowledging the government's efforts in building educational facilities. However, he called for curriculum reforms to include indigenous languages alongside Silozi, the regional lingua franca.

Chief Mayuni further expressed concerns over expected prolonged dry periods and urged the government to enhance its preparedness for anticipated droughts. He also pointed out the absence of irrigation systems as a hindrance to stable agricultural yields.

Zambezi Governor Dorothy Kabula-Simushi praised regional traditional authorities for their unity and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of building resilience and developing the region. The festival was themed 'Kusileleza chizo chetu' (Protecting our culture).