The 15th edition of the Namibia Local Authorities Sports and Recreation Association (NALASRA) Games officially kicked off at Omulunga Sports Stadium in Grootfontein on Monday.

The Minister of Urban and Rural Development (MURD), James Sankwasa, visited the Omaruru Municipality, where concerns surrounding governance and administration were raised.

Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa says all traditional authorities without chiefs are expected to have leadership in place before the end of the year, warning that unresolved disputes threaten stability and cultural cohesion within communities.

Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa encouraged new graduates to lead innovation and tackle Namibia’s social and economic challenges during the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) graduation ceremony.

The Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa, has announced Aruvita Kayoka as the Hompa of the Gciriku Traditional Authority. 

Sankwasa made the announcement at the Gciriku Traditional Authority's headquarters at Ndiyona in Kavango East.

Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa described local authorities as the “biggest headache” facing his ministry, citing widespread financial mismanagement, weak governance, and inequitable land allocation as major obstacles.

Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa says most local authority councillors are not educated and are being misadvised by Chief Executive Officers who are more academically inclined.

Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa praised the ongoing Oshakati Totem Expo for fostering trade, business partnerships, and cultural exchange.

The recent gala dinner raised N$843,000 towards the nine-day event scheduled for May.

Local authorities owe Namwater more than N$7.5 billion, with some diverting government funds meant for prepaid water meters to other uses, Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa revealed in the National Assembly.

Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa is hopeful that the amendment of the Traditional Authorities and Council of Traditional Leaders Acts will address leadership disputes as well as mushrooming traditional authorities.