Otjinene farmers have elected new leadership for the Otjinene Farmers Association, ending the previous leadership’s 18-year rule.
The association held its elective congress at Otjinene in the Omaheke region over the weekend.
Utarera Kavaka from Otjinoko village was elected chairperson, while Alfons Kanjaa was elected secretary of finance.
Tjiritja Kandirikirira was elected marketing officer, Nelson Kangootui secretary of publicity and information, Ueriuka Tjitaura secretary of projects and Kapangurua Kambirongo organiser.
Kujaraara Katjepunda and Ruth Katjatenja were elected as additional members.
The new leadership will serve for three years.
Speaking to Nampa on Monday, Kavaka said he would work with farmers and other stakeholders to grow the association.
“It’s a great honour, I am appreciating the Otjinene community for entrusting me with OFA’s top position.
Coordination is needed, and I will work with all, including those who competed for the positions, to take our association forward,” he said.
Kavaka said he would meet the new leadership and the association’s board to discuss plans for farmers in the constituency.
“I will meet with the fellow leadership and see what we can put together.
We need to bring our ideas together for the growth of our farmers in this constituency,” Kavaka said.
Otjinene constituency councillor Eben-Ezer Kauapirura called on the new leadership to review the association’s constitution to ensure it represents the needs of all farmers.
“This constitution must fit the commercial, communal farmers, young, old and women in our localities. It must fit us all today and tomorrow,” he said.
