The Governor of Kunene Region has implored all councils, business people, communities, and youth to participate in the opportunities and value chains being created by the new economic drivers.
Marius Sheya, who was speaking during the State of the Region Address, called for collective synergies as the region marches towards economic emancipation and creates pockets of hope for the locals.
Sheya says the Kunene hosts a surplus of investment potentialities across all sectors, imploring the inhabitants to take up opportunities with a focus on the economic development of the region.
The governor says the future is right at the doorstep of the green and blue economies' potential, emphasising the eagerness of the investors to invest in the Kunene Region.
"Through community engagements, specifically town hall meetings and an open-door policy, we are able to create an atmosphere of people-centred development; this targeted approach enables us to work towards achieving our goal of revival towards inclusive development and shared prosperity."
In an effort to improve its infrastructure, the regional council diverted a larger portion of its 2022–2023 budget of N$175 million towards developmental projects, including the 412-kilometre Swakopmund–Henties Bay–Kamanjab Road.
Only close to N$34 million was utilised for other purposes.
Education is also another vital component of the development of any nation.
The Ministry of Education, Art, and Culture pumped N$216 million into the development and maintenance of school infrastructure.
Schools constructed include Omuhonga Primary School, while Jacob Basson and Kamanjab Combined School's Boys Hostel received a facelift, including electricity.
"The demands for providing quality education are high, and the government is unable to adequately meet all the needs that are required for life-changing education. That is why private sector assistance is highly valued because their assistance bridges the gaps that ensure access to education for many more children."
It was during the 2022–2023 budget that Epupa Clinic and staff accommodations were constructed, as well as the installation of additional water tanks and health facility renovations.
Water has also been made available to the residents of Opuwo Rural and Urban, Epupa, Khorixas, and Kamanjab constituencies.
"The construction of an 8-kilometre water pipeline from Ohamaremba to Okanguati water reticulation project phase 3 is in progress. The project is expected to supply water to Okanguati settlement, has a budget of N$24,747, and is anticipated to be completed by November 24, 2023."
Improved road infrastructure, rural development, and land allocation also enjoyed priority.