Okatana constituency councillor Petrus Ashipala has outlined five long-term development agenda points aimed at improving service delivery, strengthening the local economy and promoting inclusive governance in the constituency.
Ashipala on Wednesday said his development goals are aligned with the Oshana Regional Council’s strategic plan, Namibia’s sixth national development plan (NDP6), and the Swapo manifesto, with a focus on sustainable growth and improved quality of life for residents.
He said his first goal is in support of infrastructure that can withstand flooding and climate-related impacts to ensure long-term safety and uninterrupted service delivery for all residents.
“My first long-term goal is to achieve reliable, equitable and climate-resilient service delivery. This includes universal access to clean water, sanitation, electricity, quality roads and social infrastructure such as schools, health facilities and community centres. In accordance with the Oshana Regional Council strategic plan and NDP6, I aim to support infrastructure that is resilient to flooding and climate change, ensuring long-term safety and continuity of services for all residents,” said Ashipala.
Ashipala said his second goal is to build a diversified and inclusive local economy by promoting skills development, youth entrepreneurship and small businesses. Over time, he hopes to create sustainable jobs and meaningful opportunities for young people and women at Okatana.
“I aim to build a diversified and inclusive local economy that creates sustainable jobs. In line with NDP6’s emphasis on economic transformation and the Swapo manifesto’s focus on industrialisation and value addition, my goal is to promote skills development, youth entrepreneurship, SMEs, cooperatives and agricultural productivity. Over the long term, Okatana should become a constituency where young people and women can access decent work and meaningful economic opportunities,” added Ashipala.
He said his third goal is to develop planned settlements and ensure residents have access to land and housing.
“My long-term vision is for planned, serviced and dignified settlements that reduce informal housing, improve spatial planning and enhance access to basic services and economic opportunities,” said Ashipala.
His fourth long-term goal is to boost social development and human capital.
“Fourthly, my goal is to strengthen social development and human capital. This includes improved access to quality education, healthcare, social protection and youth development programmes. Addressing poverty, inequality, gender-based violence and substance abuse remains central to building a healthy, productive community, as emphasised in national and regional development frameworks,” he added.
The last goal is to promote good governance, accountability and community involvement.
“My long-term goal is to foster transparent, responsive leadership and ensure that residents of Okatana actively participate in planning, implementation and monitoring of development initiatives,” Ashipala said.
Ashipala was sworn in on 5 December as a new councillor for the Okatana constituency.
– Nampa / Ester Hakaala
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