Kavango east: Kavango East Governor, Hamunyera Hambyuka, has voiced strong dissatisfaction over the prolonged underutilisation of the Shitemo Green Scheme, where large-scale irrigation infrastructure has been left largely abandoned. Hambyuka made the remarks on Monday during a familiarisation visit to the Ndonga Linena and Shitemo Green Schemes.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Shitemo Green Scheme is one of several government-owned farms in the region that has been leased to a private investor for management. Hambyuka was on a familiarisation tour of green schemes and hospitals in the region from 25 June to 03 July. The visit was cut short following the announcement of the newly appointed governors.

Upon arriving at the farm, the governor met with workers who revealed that, despite the presence of irrigation infrastructure, no cultivation had taken place over the past four to five years, leaving much of the land idle. Although sunflowers were planted earlier this year, the crops died due to insufficient irrigation.

'I am so disappointed. Nothing is going on here. No production is happening,' a visibly frustrated Hambyuka said. He emphasised the need for a comprehensive report on the state of the green scheme, adding that those entrusted with managing the land have failed to deliver, despite the government's efforts to empower private entities.

Hambyuka stated that his office will engage the current private manager to determine the way forward. 'If, after consultations, it is found necessary to terminate the lease, then we will do so. Before the end of the year, my office will announce to the community any new developments regarding this farm,' he added.

In response to enquiries about the broader issue of underutilised leased land, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform acknowledged the concerns. Senior Public Relations Officer Simon Nghipandulwa confirmed that the ministry is in the process of terminating lease agreements where land has not been effectively used. He noted that more detailed information would be provided in due course.