The untimely death of Jacob Hamutenya in a car accident on Sunday has left a deep void in the agricultural community.
Hamutenya was the Agro-Marketing and Trade Agency’s regional manager at Ongwediva Fresh Produce Hub.
Former Agro-Marketing and Trade Agency (Amta) colleague Mekeloye Uushona yesterday said Hamutenya’s death is a profound loss for Namibia.
Uushona, who worked alongside Hamutenya as an Amta spokesperson, described him as energetic and innovative.
“Jacob was always seeking practical solutions to empower agricultural producers in the northern regions.
His dedication to agro-trading was unwavering, making him a highly reliable and valued member of the Amta team,” she said.
Uushona said Hamutenya was more than just a colleague, he was a driving force for positive change.
“His passion for community development was evident in his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Namibian farmers. His commitment to progress and his genuine desire to make a difference were truly inspiring,” she said.
Hamutenya also served as the deputy chairperson of the National Youth Service (NYS).
Otjozondjupa regional police commissioner Philip Hidengwa yesterday said the accident took place about 20km north of Otjiwarongo.
Hamutenya was a passenger in the vehicle, which was driven by his driver.
The driver’s wife, who was also in the vehicle, succumbed to her injuries at a hospital.
Hamutenya, popularly known as ‘Touffi Omalaule’, was appointed to the NYS board in November 2022.
As deputy chairperson, he played a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the service and served as a member of the business development committee and the human resources and training committee.
The NYS board and management says Hamutenya was a dynamic and formidable leader, who dedicated his life to youth development in professional, political and social spheres.
“His passion for empowering young people was evident in every aspect of his work,” the board says in a statement.
Hamutenya was a renowned agriculturalist whose expertise greatly contributed to NYS production and marketing initiatives, reinforcing its mission to turn young people into productive citizens, the board says.
He also played a pivotal role on the Namibian Opportunities online platform since 2016, where he helped connect young people with employment, educational and development opportunities.
“ . . . dedicating his time and energy to helping young people access and secure personal and professional development opportunities,” the platform says in a tribute.
Beyond his work at NYS and Amta, Hamutenya was actively involved in several organisations, including the Swapo Party Youth League, the Research and Technical Advisory Committee, and the University of Namibia Alumni Association.
The NYS board and management extended their condolences to Hamutenya’s family, especially his wife and children.
“We have lost a remarkable leader, but his legacy of dedication and service will forever be remembered,” the statement reads.
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