Swapo Erongo optimistic at campaign launch: Focus on infrastructure, job creation

Swapo’s national manifesto launch on Saturday drew over a thousand supporters from across the Erongo region.

The main event in Windhoek was live-streamed to the Tamariskia Sport Field at Swakopmund, with Swapo’s presidential candidate Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah leading the charge.

The manifesto launch marked the start of Swapo’s campaign to retain political dominance in the region and across the country.

Erongo supporters closely followed the proceedings, with Swapo regional coordinator Daniel Muhuura expressing optimism about Swapo’s chances in the region. This follows Swapo’s poor performance in the region in the last elections.

“People’s eyes have opened to the reality on the ground,” Muhuura said.

According to Muhuura, the shift is attributed to a growing dissatisfaction with opposition-run municipalities, characterised by issues like potholes and poor service delivery.

“Under Swapo, we never experienced things like this. Now, people are seeing the consequences,” he added.

Muhuura expressed hope that Swapo’s track record in terms of infrastructure and healthcare, combined with the vision outlined in the manifesto, will resonate with voters in the Erongo region.

He highlighted Swapo’s achievements, such as Namibia’s top ranking in road infrastructure in Africa, as well as efforts to address challenges like youth unemployment.

“We did a lot, but we are also honest about where we need to improve,” he said.

According to Muhuura, Erongo faces several pressing challenges, which Swapo aims to tackle as part of its manifesto promises.

One of the most significant issues is the influx of people from rural areas to urban centres like Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. This has led to a rise in informal settlements and growing unemployment, he said.

It has also increased the strain on public services, including education and healthcare, he added.

He told The Namibian Swapo will focus on sustainable job creation through large-scale projects like the green hydrogen initiative.

He said the initiative is expected to generate employment opportunities and attract further investments.

“The green hydrogen project will be key in creating jobs and improving living conditions in the region,” Muhuura said.

Swapo also plans to invest in upgrading infrastructure, particularly in poorer areas, and tackle issues related to housing and public services. This includes improving access to quality education and healthcare to meet the region’s growing needs, he added.

Muhuura expressed Swapo’s commitment to addressing long-standing challenges, while building on Swapo’s past successes.

Swapo’s first star rally is scheduled for next Saturday at Walvis Bay’s Independence Beach, which Muhuura anticipates will draw large crowds from across the region.

“This time around, we will do better. The people are looking forward to hearing what Swapo has in store for the next five years,” he said.