The Namibian government has completed major transport infrastructure in the Oshana Region during the 2022–23 Financial Year to create an enabling environment for economic growth and improve the country's global competitiveness.
In his State of the Region Address, Oshana Governor Elias Irimari says the Works and Transport Ministry has made commendable progress in expanding the road network in the region.
In the Oshana Region, the national road network stretches over 751,35 kilometres, of which 139 kilometres are bitumen roads, 263 kilometres are gravel roads, 161 kilometres are track, and 186 kilometres are proclaimed roads.
The Okatana-Onamutayi bitumen standard road was also finalised, and the Road Authority has plans to implement four projects during this financial year.
This includes the construction of Ompundja-Ekango LyaMbaambala to Naluvanda Gate.
"Moreover, the RA has started with the project for the upgrading to the low volume seal standard of DR3605 from Oluno to Uukwiyuushona road. The project for the rehabilitation of borrow pits in the Oshana Region is also currently in procurement and is expected to start before the end of September 2023," said Irimari.
Others include the 30 kilometres of gravel road from Ondjungulume to Uuvudhiya-Engombe Oponona, Uukwiyuushona, and Ompundja, and the dual carriageway from Omuthiya to Ondangwa-Oshakati.
"In addition, I am pleased to report that the progress for the railway project between Ondangwa and Oshakati has progressed well, including the railway station at Oshakati East, which is almost completed."
On crime, the region has taken a step backward in addressing issues pertaining to violence against women and children.
The region recorded 497 cases of gender-based violence and 130 cases of rape, of which 62 involved minors.
"We should not tolerate perpetrators of these insidious crimes in our societies. It is disappointing to note that our societies have now normalised intolerable acts and lawlessness that go unreported, where women and children secretly endure suffering and abuse for prolonged periods at the hands of perpetrators. We need to address GBV as a matter of urgency."