The lack of key services such as health facilities, schools, road infrastructure, and proper network coverage for mobile phones and radios negatively affects the living standards of those residing in some villages in the Epukiro Constituency.

This was shared by the headman of Otjomunguindi village, Theophelus Mbinga.

Mbinga stated that the distance from their area to where they can access local basic services is long and costly, coupled with the dominance of predators and other wild animals that threaten their lives almost daily.

The area also has poor network coverage, and the residents cannot call for help in case of an emergency.

"If someone got sick here – as we recently had an incident with a girl who was attacked by a snake – we didn't have any options until she succumbed to death. When we talk about having a clinic in this area, it is something of urgent need; even here you can't hear about ongoing meetings as we don't have radio reception, and we really don't know what is delaying these much-needed services. So we regard ourselves as marginalized."

Another challenge affecting farmers is the emergence of poisonous plants that kill livestock upon consumption.

The Epukiro Constituency Councillor, Packy Pakarae, acknowledged the slow pace of development in the area, but plans are underway to build a clinic and a school at Ondjora village.

Pakarae says if all goes to plan, this will greatly assist the residents who are traveling close to 200 kilometers to access the needed services.

"In terms of getting services closer to the people, we have identified areas as growth points that must be supported to reach settlement level in Epukiro. One is Otjimangangombe, Otjijarua, and Ondjora is one of the areas. Of course, an in-depth feasibility study must be concluded by different line ministries such as health and education; however, in principle, we have agreed that Ondjora is the ideal place, looking at the location and topography within that area for a school and a clinic. Not far from that, we have the San community at Otjiwamapeta, where the intention is to accommodate more San people, and all medical supplies are needed; hence, Ondjora is one of the places."

The councillor also urged the inhabitants to make use of the good rainfall recorded in the area to venture into crop production, as diversification in farming has become a key component.