Oshikoto: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has condemned the killing of a deputy headman, Sam Nepando, following a land dispute in Iikokola village in the Oshikoto Region, describing the incident as senseless violence that undermines lawful land administration. The incident occurred on 02 January 2026 and left the village headman, I-Ben Nashandi, injured.

According to Namibia Press Agency, a statement released on Thursday by the ministry's Executive Director, Theofilus Nghitila, emphasized the central role of traditional authorities in the administration of communal land, in collaboration with the ministry and communal land boards. Their responsibilities include allocating or cancelling customary land rights, investigating land disputes, and conducting hearings related to contested land claims.

Nghitila further noted that land-related conflicts are on the rise across the country, driven by issues such as land grabbing, illegal fencing, allocation of land in sensitive areas, and uncoordinated distribution in commonages. A number of cases involve non-Namibians or individuals acquiring land under the pretext of marriage.

The executive director urged Namibians to resolve disputes through lawful processes as outlined in existing legislation, particularly the Communal Land Reform Act. He stressed the importance of observing the rule of law in settling land disputes.

To address the growing challenges, the ministry has proposed punitive measures contained in the Land Bill, which is currently before the National Assembly. The bill seeks to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and deter illegal land practices. The statement also cautioned against commencing any development activities on communal land without the necessary approvals.