The Chief of Uukwambi Traditional Authority, Ndilimani Iipumbu, and the Oshana Regional Governor, Elia Irimari, have joined forces to stop the illegal fencing of large areas of communal land, particularly grazing areas.

The governor, joined by various stakeholders, spoke about the issue during an engagement at the chief's residence in Onamega Village.

They have pledged to take decisive action against those engaging in fencing land, emphasising the importance of protecting valuable grazing resources for the benefit of the community.

Irimari says illegal land fencing is a growing concern in the region, as it not only restricts access to vital grazing areas but also undermines communal land management practices and disrupts the traditional way of life for local communities.

"We will not tolerate this anarchy anymore; whoever it is, whether high or low profile, we will take the same action as no one is above the law. The situation is getting out of hand, and people are undermining prevailing laws. What will happen to farmers who cannot afford to fence off? And in the future, where will our cattle graze?"

Chief Iipumbu expressed the community's determination to enforce existing regulations and collaborate with relevant authorities to investigate and take action against those found guilty of illegal fencing.

Over the years, illegal fencing of grazing areas has become rife, with some Namibians accused of illegally extending these activities into neighbouring Angola.

Both leaders urged community members to report any incidents of illegal fencing of communal land to the authorities, stressing that such actions would not be tolerated. 

"We have had this challenge for years now, and our efforts are proving futile. We have appointed a committee to investigate how these people occupied this land, and we hope our headmen are truly not involved in the sale of these grazing areas. This year, we will leave no stone unturned."

An area where the practice seems to be common is Oponona, where the land committee is expected to go and identify individuals suspected of illegal fencing of areas.

Once identified, they will be informed to vacate, and those who refuse are to be taken to court.