Oshana: Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge on Wednesday handed over building materials valued at approximately N. dollars 36,000 to the community of Etambo for the upgrade of their community centre. The donated items include 60 IBR corrugated iron sheets, 100 nails, and 10 bags of cement, provided by the Mayor of Ondangwa, Ester Auala, and the Councillor of Ondangwa Urban Constituency, Leonard Negonga, in their personal capacities.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Iipinge emphasized during the handover ceremony that the materials were selected to ensure quality and durability, minimizing any risk to safety. He stated, "The estimated amount of the materials donated is about N.dollars 36,000, which was used to purchase IBR sheets and nails. This is to ensure that we do not compromise on the quality of the products we are donating to our people. We made sure that the materials are of good quality and long-lasting, so they do not put people's lives or gatherings at risk when making use of the upgraded facility."
Iipinge highlighted that supporting local development is a key priority and part of the government's long-term agenda. He noted, "Since this community came up with the idea, it is our mandate to meet them halfway. This contribution is part of government initiatives that support and promote community development." He also urged the community to safeguard the centre post-upgrade and to prevent vandalism.
Community member Annely Neema expressed her gratitude to the governor, viewing it as a reflection of his commitment to the people of the Oshana Region. "We are lucky to receive this donation after a long struggle for a community shade. This donation is a testament to good leadership and shows the government's commitment to providing development for the Namibian people," Neema said.
Ester Nghinamanu, another community member, expressed satisfaction with the donation, emphasizing the newfound safety and comfort for receiving drought-relief food. "We are very happy to receive this donation. It means a lot to us because now, when we receive our drought-relief food, we have proper shade and will no longer stand under a tree. We, the entire Etambo community, would like to say thank you," Nghinamanu said.