As 2025 draws to a close, ||Kharas Governor Dawid Gertze has wished the region's inhabitants a happy New Year and established the tone for 2026.
Delivering his new year message, Governor Gertze themed 2026 as the year of unity, decisive action and self-reliance.
"As we stand at the threshold of 2026, I am filled with a profound sense of purpose and optimism. From the moment I assumed duty as the governor of this region, you welcomed me with open arms and, more importantly, with open hearts. Hearts are loaded with expectations for a better tomorrow. You have spoken clearly. You feel left out, and you expected the 8th administration to restore hope and deliver a future with anticipation. We have listened, and we have heard."
Reflecting on 2025, the governor highlighted challenges, including severe water shortages in rural communities and divisions among traditional communities.
He also cited an urgent need for development and job creation.
Degrading housing services in Aussenkehr and Noordoewer, limited economic growth, as well as poor service delivery and education performances are but some of the matters needing redress.
"All the above challenges call for our collective actions and resolve. Every individual, regardless of their social status, should actively contribute to bringing about positive changes in our society. I declare to you today, there is hope. The 8th administration has declared war on all counterproductive schisms."
Outlining his outlook for the year 2026, Gertze pledged that his office, in collaboration with government agencies and ministries, would aggressively address challenges that defined 2025.
"Before the end of January 2026, we will begin decisive action on the Aussenkehr housing challenge. It cannot and will not continue unattended, as it destroys the hope and dignity of our people."
The governor further encouraged public servants to excel in delivering services diligently to the communities they serve.
"Serve the purpose for which you are employed. You are not politicians; you are servants of the people; you are technocrats. Stop the biases, stop the political attitudes."
Gertze urged the region's inhabitants to step into 2026 with renewed spirits and to take charge as architects of their own destiny.