The Standing Committee on Public Accounts and Economy of the National Council has called on the Namibia Industrial Development Agency (NIDA) to implement urgent reforms across its agro-processing and industrial projects.
Following oversight visits to NIDA-managed initiatives in the //Kharas, Otjozondjupa, Zambezi, Kavango West, and Oshana regions, the committee and stakeholders identified financial hurdles, governance concerns, and operational inefficiencies affecting several projects.
Kavango Cattle Ranch
The committee has directed NIDA to finalize and share its turnaround strategy for the Kavango Cattle Ranch (KCR) with stakeholders by 28 February 2025. Additionally, the agency must involve the Kavango West Regional Council in discussions on land ownership, amid a legal dispute between the Ukwangali Traditional Authority and the government.
NIDA has also been urged to review contract-based employment policies to retain skilled workers and address security concerns at the ranch, following reports of mismanagement and cattle losses.
!Homs-Ai Project (Keetmanshoop)
NIDA has been instructed to resolve outstanding water debt at the !Homs-Ai Market in collaboration with the Keetmanshoop Municipality and install prepaid water and electricity meters by 31 March 2025.
The agency must also investigate the removal of 11 sewing machines from the garment factory to private premises and account for a missing embroidery machine. A full stock-take of all equipment must be conducted against the official inventory list by the same deadline.
To address financial challenges, NIDA has been urged to establish a settlement agreement with the Keetmanshoop Municipality to clear outstanding debts.
Omulunga Industrial Park
The committee has called on NIDA to settle outstanding debts at Omulunga Industrial Park to ensure uninterrupted operations and water supply. Concerns over inconsistent charges for rates and taxes must also be addressed, with all stakeholders duly informed.
Naute Irrigation Project (Keetmanshoop)
NIDA has been advised to review its partnership with Naute Distillery amid concerns that the current agreement disproportionately benefits the private entity. The committee also highlighted the need for improved stakeholder engagement to enhance project coordination.
NIDA has been directed to resolve all identified challenges and submit progress reports every six months to the Public Accounts and Economy Committee.
