Non-recognition a non-issue: councillor

KEETMANSHOOP – A senior traditional councillor from one of the two factions of the Berseba traditional authority has reassured members of his community that they will not forfeit any land because of the non-recognition of their traditional authorities.

Senior councillor Moses Kohlman was speaking to members of the /Huibes Water Point Association (WPA). Kohlman said despite the Berseba traditional authority not being recognised by Government, no one will be victimised.The Berseba traditional authority of the /Hai- /Khauan is not recognised because two opposing factions from the clan, the Isaacks and the Goliaths, both claim legitimacy.Kohlman said despite a long-standing feud between the two groups, it has been possible over the years to handle traditional matters such as land rights.The Berseba traditional area comprises 728 000 hectares.He urged the Berseba community to resolve their long-standing differences, as the fact that Government does not recognise them is stalling development in the area.”No matter how much Government would like to assist us, this will not be possible unless we resolve our differences,” he said.Previous attempts by Government to solve the standoff have proved futile.- NampaKohlman said despite the Berseba traditional authority not being recognised by Government, no one will be victimised.The Berseba traditional authority of the /Hai- /Khauan is not recognised because two opposing factions from the clan, the Isaacks and the Goliaths, both claim legitimacy.Kohlman said despite a long-standing feud between the two groups, it has been possible over the years to handle traditional matters such as land rights.The Berseba traditional area comprises 728 000 hectares.He urged the Berseba community to resolve their long-standing differences, as the fact that Government does not recognise them is stalling development in the area.”No matter how much Government would like to assist us, this will not be possible unless we resolve our differences,” he said.Previous attempts by Government to solve the standoff have proved futile.- Nampa