The Prime Minister's office has rejected claims that the distribution of drought relief rice to the Oshikoto Region was influenced by tribal factors.

There is a shortage in the number of rice bags to be distributed in the region compared to the needy households identified.

The public expressed dissatisfaction with Oshikoto being the sole beneficiary of the rice, arguing that other regions are equally or more affected by the drought.

In a statement, the Executive Director in the Prime Minister's office, I-Ben Nashandi, clarified that the allocation of the Chinese-donated rice to the Oshikoto Region is not specific but part of the government's ongoing efforts to support communities in need, particularly those affected by the drought.

He refuted claims that the donation was influenced by tribal considerations, stating that the allocation process has always considered the donated quantities, the number of beneficiaries in each region, and available food stocks in regional warehouses to avoid oversupply and food spoilage.

This follows concerns regarding its distribution, which Nashandi noted, although limited, makes it more effective to target specific areas.

Nashandi explained that the decision to allocate the rice to Oshikoto was based on factors like equitable distribution of donations and the fact that Oshikoto had not received food aid from previous donations.

The Office of the Prime Minister dispatched 27,000 bags of 50 kg of rice to the Oshikoto region.

A nutritional needs assessment also revealed a high prevalence of acute malnutrition in the region, which justified the rice allocation as part of efforts to address the situation.

Nashandi reaffirmed the office's commitment to a transparent, needs-based distribution process, focusing solely on humanitarian priorities and thorough assessments.

Concerning allegations about China producing fake rice, Nashandi assured the public that all food donations to Namibia undergo rigorous health inspections in collaboration with relevant institutions.

These inspections include comprehensive quality verification to meet Namibian food safety standards.