Serving Kavango East has been humbling, fulfilling – Wakudumo

Former Kavango East governor Bonifatius Wakudumo says his five years serving the region have been both humbling and fulfilling.

He said this while welcoming the region’s new governor, Julius Hambyuka, at Rundu on Monday.

“I leave office with a heart full of gratitude, knowing I have served to the best of my ability. I extend my deepest appreciation to the people of Kavango East for their trust, cooperation and support.

“It is through this collective spirit that we have made progress, and I am confident that the foundation we have built will continue to propel the region forward,” he said.

Wakudumo said serving as governor has been a great honour, and a journey filled with challenges and invaluable lessons.

“When I assumed office, I made a commitment to serve with diligence, integrity and dedication, always prioritising the development and well-being of our region and its people,” he said.

Throughout his tenure, Wakudumo said he had the privilege of working closely with various stakeholders to address critical issues such as infrastructure development, youth empowerment, economic growth and social welfare.

There were moments of immense pride, he said.

“At the same time, there were challenges that tested our spirit. However, in every challenge, I found strength in the resilience of the people of Kavango East, their unwavering hope, their determination and their deep commitment to a better region,” he said.

Chairperson of the Kavango East Regional Council Damian Maghambayi said over the years, Wakudumo dedicated himself to addressing the many challenges faced by communities in the region.

“Whether it was advocating for better services, promoting economic growth or working tirelessly to improve the lives of those in need, you have left an indelible mark on this region,” Maghambayi said.

At the same platform, newly appointed Hambyuka outlined his plan to tackle the region’s challenges, focusing on unity, economic transformation, and rural development.

He said unemployment, particularly among the youth, has been identified as one of the most urgent issues in the region.

“Plans to engage with the Kavango East Chamber of Commerce and Industry or a similar body aim to foster business collaborations that will boost trade, create jobs, and encourage entrepreneurship,” he said.

Hambyuka said economic transformation and inclusive growth are key pillars for development.

“I shall pay delíberate attention to the development of small, youth, and women-owned businesses through partnerships and incubation, because township and rural economies are important elements of socio-economic transformation.”

Recognising the pressing need for disaster management, Hambyuka called on local authorities to implement effective plans to mitigate risks in urban areas.

“Residents must avoid building structures in flood-prone zones or on river beds without proper approval,” he warned.

– Additional reporting Nampa