Despite the challenges of the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak in the country, the Aminuis Farmers Association found it necessary to assist the education sector by handing out forty-five thousand Namibian dollars to six schools in the Aminuis Constituency towards the end of the year final examination preparations.
The Chairperson of the Association, Garden Hengua, emphasised that education requires a multi-sectoral approach; hence, as part of the association's mandate to invest in the education sector, they saw it fit to assist the schools.
"We will not hide it: we are in difficulty with FMD. Our cattle are sick; we cannot sell. Our income is gone. Food is scarce in many homes. Many farmers here are also affected and struggling, but we said to each other as farmers, 'Even if we are suffering, we must not let our children suffer in education. Even if our kraals are empty, our schools must not be empty. That is why we are today."
The regional education inspector, Ismael Kazondanga, says that the government alone will not provide enough service for everyone; therefore, communities need to play a crucial role in assisting the education sector.
Hence, the association has donated to the schools during this critical time of the year, as learners are preparing for final examination sessions.
"It is therefore encouraging, despite these difficult circumstances. Mr Chairperson, our farmers association has found it appropriate to extend our helping hand to our schools. Your contribution reflects resilience, solidarity and deep understanding that the education of our children must remain a priority even during difficult economic times."
On behalf of the communities, Lazarus Kaapama pointed out that it's high time education becomes everyone's priority in the area. He called upon other entities to emulate the farmers association's example and assist schools.
"We hope that you will put this donation to good use. We know that the needs of the schools are very enormous and that cannot be met by the little that you'll be receiving today, but at least it can contribute to something."