Swakopmund: Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa has raised concerns over financial mismanagement and human resource challenges within several Regional and Local Authority Councils. Speaking at the official opening of the High-Level Consultative Meeting for Regional and Local Authority Councils in Swakopmund, Sankwasa cautioned against the misappropriation of land and what he described as 'political gimmicks' by some councils acting as though Namibia were a federal state.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the minister emphasized the necessity for Namibia to act in cohesion as a unitary state. He urged those harboring the belief that belonging to an opposition party equates to independence from the central government to reconsider their stance. Sankwasa highlighted the importance of addressing critical challenges such as rapid urbanization, rural poverty, inadequate housing and sanitation, and the upgrading of informal settlements. He called for the acceleration of land delivery, particularly through subsidizing local authorities in line with the 2024 National Housing Policy.
Sankwasa stressed that the successful implementation of the Ministry's mandate requires collective effort and accountability across all levels of governance. He emphasized that without the involvement, participation, and commitment of all stakeholders, delivering the President's mandate would be challenging. The minister called for commitment, dedication, and accountability to oneself, the Ministry, and the people of Namibia to execute the mandate effectively.
Erongo Governor Neville Andre Itope, also speaking at the event, described the consultative platform as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening intergovernmental relations and promoting inclusive development. He noted that the platform reaffirms the commitment to enhancing cooperation across the national, regional, and local spheres of government. Governor Itope also highlighted that the Cabinet has affirmed the Swapo Party Manifesto as a national development program, emphasizing its implementation as a collective responsibility irrespective of political affiliation.
Governor Itope further stressed the importance of delivering quality public services, particularly by leaders working directly with communities. The two-day workshop brings together councillors, mayors, chief executive officers, and senior officials from across the country.