Namibia’s 36th Independence Day celebrations in Karibib were marked by renewed commitments to service delivery, water security, and regional development, as Erongo Governor Nathalia /Goagoses addressed residents.

Commemorating independence on 21 March, /Goagoses said the occasion reflects “the maturity of our democracy and the values upon which our nation was founded,” while outlining priorities for the region under her leadership. She identified water scarcity as a pressing concern, noting that Erongo remains one of Namibia’s most water-stressed regions. /Goagoses announced plans to review and strengthen the Erongo Water Forum and convene a regional water dialogue to find sustainable solutions. Road safety also featured prominently, with /Goagoses pledging to reinforce the Erongo Road Safety Forum to reduce preventable accidents on congested roads. On development initiatives, she revealed that her office recently secured a N$300 000 donation from a fishing industry stakeholder.

These funds, she said, will contribute to the establishment of an Erongo Development Fund aimed at supporting youth, women, and vulnerable communities. In addition, more than N$2 million has been allocated through the governor’s office to promote fish consumption across all seven constituencies. The programme will provide training and equipment, particularly targeting young women and other beneficiaries. “We are going to train you and provide equipment so that fish consumption in our region is promoted,” she said.

The governor emphasised that key programmes and projects in the region will be reviewed to ensure improved and accelerated service delivery.

By Sharlien Tjambari