Berseba: Chief of the |Hai-|Khaua Traditional Authority, Johannes Isaack, has urged the Berseba community to plant crops and rear livestock not just for survival, but to increase incomes and strengthen food security in their homes and across the country. Speaking at the 14th |Hai-|Khaua Traditional Authority Festival at Berseba over the weekend, Isaack called on the government to implement projects to improve the livelihoods of vulnerable farmers, as well as to restock animals lost during drought years, in order to uplift many out of poverty and improve their standard of living.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Isaack highlighted the significance of the recent rains, emphasizing that they present an opportunity for restoration, growth, and prosperity. He urged the community to utilize the green pastures and fertile soils to revive and expand farming activities. With the Neckartal Dam overflowing again after the widespread rains, Isaack stressed the urgent need to expedite the construction of irrigation schemes at the dam, which he believes will unlock enormous economic benefits for the country.

Isaack also pointed out that the establishment of the irrigation scheme would provide opportunities for local businesses to engage in the agriculture value chain, boost the economy, create jobs-particularly for unemployed youth-uplift the living standards of local communities, and enhance food security in Namibia. However, he noted the challenges posed by the lack of adequate boreholes and the non-rehabilitation of existing ones, which hinder progress toward crop production and food security.

Addressing financial constraints, Isaack expressed concern over the continuous budget cuts at the central government level, questioning the counterproductive nature of such decisions. Furthermore, he lamented the state of education in the ||Kharas Region, urging the education ministry to take action to improve educational standards in the region.