Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa has warned that Namibia’s urban centres are under increasing strain from rising migration and called for stronger rural investment to reduce pressure on towns and cities.
“When the new Government Administration took office in March 2025, we were committed to leading the National Development Agenda for the people of this country. Over the past six months, I have been particularly focused on urgent issues related to urban development, improving service delivery and mutual accountability,” Sankwasa said at the Rural Development Annual Progress Review and Planning Workshop in Otjiwarongo.
He said migration from rural regions, especially among unemployed youth, is burdening infrastructure and service delivery. At independence, over 60% of the population lived in rural areas, compared to more than 50% now living in urban centres.
“Our rural areas must be developed through support to local entrepreneurship, investing in digital connectivity, basic infrastructure, promoting sustainable industries and empowering youth through education and providing access to micro-credit,” he said.
Sankwasa said that over the past year the Ministry financed more than 300 rural projects through Regional Councils, targeting food security, water, electricity and rural access roads. He added that more than 1,000 toilet facilities have been built, with Oshana and Ohangwena Regional Councils using labour-based approaches to create jobs while improving sanitation.
“I urge other Regional Councils to follow this transformative step going forward for public health, safety, and human dignity,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of strengthening the institutional capacities of Regional Councils, Constituency Development Committees and Traditional Leaders. “Experience elsewhere tells us that Traditional Leaders, as trusted community figures, play a crucial role in improving sanitation by mobilising communities to adopt new sanitation behaviours. I urge you to continue your invaluable work in this area,” Sankwasa said.
The Minister outlined upcoming priorities, including reviewing the National Rural Development Policy and Strategy by June 2026, operationalising Rural Development Centres by November 2025, and boosting job creation through initiatives such as the National Youth Development Fund and the Cash for Work Programme.
He further announced that N$31 million has been allocated to scale up rural sanitation, with a focus on vulnerable groups including people with disabilities, the elderly and child-headed households.
“Our Ministry is committed to ensuring that Regional Councils no longer accumulate savings while people live in poverty. Funds must be used effectively, accounted for, and directed to those who need them most,” Sankwasa said.
