The minister of Urban and Rural Development revealed that more than half of Namibia's population lives in rural areas, placing renewed pressure on the government to accelerate development and improve services delivery in underserved communities.

This James Sankwasa was brought to light during the opening of the 2026 Annual Rural Development Progress Review and Planning Workshop held at Swakopmund.

Minister Sankwasa said the latest population census shows that about 50.5% of Namibians live in rural areas, making rural development central to the country's national development agenda.

He said the workshop is aimed at reviewing progress, identifying challenges and strengthening the National Rural Development Policy and Strategy to better respond to the needs of the rural communities.

Despite progress in some regions, he acknowledged that several Regional Councils continue to struggle with delayed projects, unspent development funds and idle Rural Development Centers, leaving communities waiting for essential services.

His message was read on his behalf by his deputy, Evelyn !Nawases-Taeyele

"We will support those who deliver, but we cannot condone poor performance and unauthorised expenditure. Beyond spending budgets, we must improve the quality and impact of the projects we deliver. Infrastructure such as schools, community facilities and water projects must be durable and serve our people for many years."

A member of the Swakopmund Municipality's Management Committee, Charlene Hartung, said the workshop provides an important platform for leaders and stakeholders to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships and develop practical solutions to improve the lives of rural communities. 

"I am therefore confident that over the coming days, the discussions and deliberations of this workshop will review achievements and lessons learned and, at the same time, also inspire innovative thinking, strengthen partnerships, and generate practical solutions that will transform the lives of rural communities across Namibia."