Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila has emphasised that although local authorities are mandated to develop local structures and extend services to residents, these efforts are often frustrated by lack of resources.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila noted that this will only be alleviated by efforts to promote investment within local authorities, which are at times minimal.
The prime minister made the remarks at the official opening of the first-ever Amalgamated Rotational Annual Festival (ARAF) by the Omaruru, Karibib and Usakos Local Authority Councils (OKULAC) in Omaruru on Wednesday.
“Local authorities are key stakeholders in promoting local economic development. Therefore, efforts to promote investment within local authorities are commendable, as they enhance the capacities of these local authorities to attract investments and contribute to employment creation within their jurisdictions,” she said.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila further encouraged exhibitors to come up with innovative ideas in order to add more value to their products and services, adding that value added products will enable them to have more returns on their investments.
Erongo Governor, Neville Andre Itope who is also the patron of the festival, commended the three local authorities for the initiative, which as a result will uplift their ailing local economies.
“What local authorities have done is just another demonstration that we as leaders in our region work together for the development of our people in the region despite our political differences,” he stated.
The event was a result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) entered into in 2022 and comprises a number of disciplines of cooperation, among others, the hosting of ARAF within the three towns on an annual basis.
Omaruru Mayor, Vincent Kahua said the three towns will achieve more in terms of development and economic growth during the collaboration, as opposed to working individually.
“ARAF is set to revive the economy and attract investment opportunities within the three towns, equalising small and medium enterprise growth and expansion for the betterment of the three towns’ livelihoods,” he said.
Over 100 exhibitors are exhibiting at the festival.
The four-day event is taking place under the theme: Bigger, Better, Broader.
The event is expected to take place in Karibib in 2024, followed by Usakos in 2025.
Source: The Namibia Press Agency