The Zambezi Regional Council is ready to host the 34th Independence Celebration for the first time since independence.

Zambezi Governor, Alufea Sampofu, says all logistics have been put in place, and the established Regional Preparatory Committee is hard at work to ensure that come March 21st, it's all systems go.

The Zambezi Regional Council is ready to host about 10,000 people at the Katima Mulilo Sports Complex, and Sampofu is looking forward to hosting the guests.

Sampofu says so far the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism has also stepped in to assist with the celebration's preparations.

"The Ministry of Environment has availed 15 Kudus, 15 Buffaloes, and other small meat. Meatco will slaughter 15 cattle from the government as well. Meatco will slaughter these cattle, freeze them, and cut them nicely for the venue."

As accommodation seems to be a challenge with all hotels, guest houses, and lodges fully booked, Sampofu says alternative arrangements have been made.

The Zambezi Governor stressed that the hosting of independence in the region is long overdue given the fact that the region played an important role during the exodus of Namibians into Zambia and Botswana as a transit route for many leaders and founders of the liberation struggle for independence.

The Independence celebration has a budget of N$2.5 million this year.