Employees of the Eland Group in the Omusati Region, along with former Information Minister Joel Kaapanda, participated in cultivating the Uukwaluudhi Traditional Authority's mahangu field in the Tsandi constituency.

This cultivation is a cultural practice carried out by tribesmen to ensure the palace produces enough food for those 

in need. It is part of an ancient tradition among Aawambo communities aimed at increasing food production at the king's homestead.

The surplus food generated is distributed to vulnerable individuals within the jurisdiction of the traditional authority, helping to combat hunger.

 The Uukwaludhi Palace is committed to ensuring that no one under their authority goes to bed hungry, thus collaborating with the government by providing food grown on the palace grounds to those in need.

Joel Kaapanda, a resident of Iitananga and former Minister of ICT, was among the participants. "Today, we are in the Omukwaniilwa's mahangu field, where a group of us is weeding. The organizer, local businessman Tate Kambwela, felt it was important to uphold our tradition of working in Omukwaniilwa's fields. Most of the workers here are from his business, and some of us joined to support his efforts."

Community members are encouraged to keep this cultural practice alive by volunteering to cultivate at various palaces, ensuring sufficient food production for all. 

It has been customary for groups of villagers to work in Aakwaniilwa's fields, particularly for those within the traditional authority who occasionally lack food.

"This is traditional; everyone should help cultivate because this is a palace. During droughts, people rely on food from here. This season, we must work together to grow food for ourselves," said Kaapanda.

Businessman Kambwela added that this practice is dwindling and emphasized the importance of reviving cultural norms and traditions as a shared responsibility.