Traditional leaders from both Kavango East and West regions gathered in Rundu this week to deliberate on ways to improve the welfare of their communities.

The meeting brought together representatives from all five traditional authorities under the Kavango Traditional Leaders Forum.

Forum Chairperson Hompa Eugene Siwombe Kudumo of Uukwangali said the gathering aimed to address challenges affecting their people and to seek solutions based on facts.

“This is the first of its kind. We do have other meetings, but this one is proactive and pro-engagement with stakeholders so that we know what is really going on in our communities,” Kudumo said. “There are times we complain without knowing the root causes. We had to go in depth and inquire why some activities are happening in our society.”

The leaders also discussed proposed amendments to the Traditional Authorities Act, local crime, development projects, and education.

“Some of our schools are dilapidated. Drugs are looted in from neighboring countries. Our children are even using drugs at school, which is a threat to the community,” Kudumo added. “Angolans, when they come here, we help them—and now we want the treatment to be reciprocal. We are here to rectify and see how we can have a developed and peaceful Kavango.”

Traditional leaders continue to play a key role in promoting social cohesion and supporting national governance, especially in rural communities.

The forum is expected to reconvene on 25 June to address remaining issues.