Windhoek: In efforts to provide a unified voice, secure better market access, and strengthen local agricultural development in their constituency, the Otjinene Farmers Association (OFA) elected new leaders over the weekend in the Omaheke Region. The elective congress took place at Otjinene, ending the 18-year rule of the previous leadership.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Utarera Kavaka from Otjinoko village scooped the chairperson portfolio while the financial affairs of the association are in the hands of Alfons Kanjaa who was elected secretary of finance. Tjiritja Kandirikirira is the association's marketing officer, whereas Nelson Kangootui was chosen as secretary of publicity and information. The secretary of projects portfolio will be handled by Ueriuka Tjitaura, while Kapangurua Kambirongo is the OFA organiser. In helping the association in various aspects, OFA elected Kujaraara Katjepunda and Ruth Katjatenja as two additional members. The new OFA administration will run the affairs of the association for a three-year term.

Sharing with Nampa on Monday, the association chairperson Kavaka expressed his excitement to be at the helm of OFA, saying he would work hard to bolster growth within the Otjinene farming community. "It's a great honour, I am appreciating the Otjinene community for entrusting me with OFA's top position. Coordination is needed, and I will work with all including those who competed for the positions to take our association forward," he said. Kavaka further urged all stakeholders to work together for the betterment of OFA and the entire community of Otjinene. "I will meet with the fellow leadership and see what we can put together. We need to bring our ideas together for the growth of our farmers in this constituency," Kavaka said, adding that he will also sit with the association board.

On his part, Otjinene Constituency councillor Eben-Ezer Kauapirura requested the new leadership to align OFA's constitution with current interests of Otjinene farmers. "This constitution must fit the commercial, communal farmers, young, old and women in our localities. It must fit us all today and tomorrow," he said.