Ohangwena Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa asserts that, although the region has achieved more in recent times, it is still plagued by numerous challenges. 

The main challenges plaguing the region include water scarcity, sanitation backlogs, uneven infrastructure development between rural and urban areas, limited economic opportunities, and youth unemployment. 

Others are institutional capacity constraints, delays in project implementation, and border-related challenges, such as cross-border movement, crime prevention, and informal settlement management.

"These realities require leadership that goes beyond routine administration; they demand visionary, disciplined, and people-centred leadership."

She called on leaders in the region to show focus to ensure they move from activity to achievement. 

Nghipondoka-Hamutumwa says fragmentation, delays and institutional work in silos can no longer be justified because people need service, and this can only be achieved through unity.

"To translate vision into results, our leadership must commit to strengthening coordination between the regional council, local authorities and line ministries; improving monitoring, evaluation and reporting systems; prioritising high-impact interventions for rural service delivery and youth employment; ensuring efficient, transparent and accountable use of public resources; building institutional and technical capacity; and supporting the police in maintaining law, order and community trust."

She said the people in Ohangwena want visible progress and demand that their elected leaders listen, plan, and deliver.

"History will judge us not by the number of strategies we approve but by whether the lives of our people improved under our leadership. Let us therefore lead with integrity, plan with foresight, execute with discipline and serve with humility."