A senior traditional councillor in the Hoveka Traditional Authority is bemoaning a lack of ownership towards community projects by the locals in the Eiseb areas.

Tjamena Uanivi said this during an interview with nbc News team at Okatumba Gate in the Omaheke Region.

Uanivi stressed that the government, through the Social Security Commission, assisted the community with a rural electrification project at Okatumba Gate settlement.

However, the project faced a setback when strong winds and rainfall a year later blew away the building's roof.

Uanivi noted that this situation has resulted in the theft of some of the donated items.

"Our people want development, but they don't keep donated items, and it's not only for the donated items. Even on other infrastructure, such as auction kraals, is a sign that our people are reluctant to take care of things, and TAs and farmers' associations are the ones to be the watchdog, and our people should know that the government will not spend money forever on us."

The leader urged locals to take care of the infrastructure provided by stakeholders for their upliftment.

Constituency Councillor of Otjombinde, Wenzel Kavaka, pointed out that local communities are key pillars of development, and if they are not guarding the given infrastructures, their area will remain unchanged for years.

Kavaka warned locals to refrain from destructive behaviours.