Many Oshana families battle hunger

Oshana governor Elia Irimari says many families in the region are facing challenges in accessing sufficient food and basic necessities.

This leads to increased vulnerability and hardship, he says.

Irimari says many people living in the region’s urban areas are food insecure and unable to feed their families due to the persistent drought affecting most rural communities.

The governor said this yesterday during the official handover of drought-relief food to local authorities in the region at Oshakati.

“As we are all aware, the persistent drought situation has not only affected our farmers and rural communities, but has also had a significant impact on our urban areas.

“While acknowledging the scorching drought within our communities, I would like to remind everyone that the ploughing season is here, and various government subsidies are available from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, aimed at food production and maximising our harvest outcomes.

“I therefore invite our community members to approach the ministry’s offices and find out about available assistance,” he said.

The Oshakati Town Council has registered a total of 6 560 people in dire need of drought-relief food, while Ongwediva has registered more than 1 000 people.

The Ondangwa Town Council has recorded more than 2 000 people in dire need of food assistance.

The Oshana Regional Council has donated food items worth more than N$134 000 to the Oshakati, Ongwediva and Ondangwa town councils.

The donation includes 184 bags of maize meal, 184 bottles of cooking oil, and 737 cans of tinned fish for each local authority.

Oshana Regional Councilchairperson Andreas Utoni said this initiative seeks to inspire collaborative effort and synergy between the Oshana Regional Council and local authority councils.

“As we hand over these supplies, we trust they will reach the intended beneficiaries promptly, and that they will provide some relief during this challenging period.

“We encourage local authorities and community leaders to oversee a transparent distribution process, ensuring that the assistance reaches those who need it the most,” he said.