In Namibia, six traditional authorities receive vehicles worth N$4.29 million
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Observer24
The handover of vehicles worth 4.29 million Namibian dollars to six traditional authorities has revived debate over funding for these institutions and the risks of ethnic rivalries. The vehicles, supplied by Oonani Investments Group using revenue from public fishing quotas allocated to the traditional authorities’ fund, are worth 715,000 Namibian dollars each, reports Observer24.
Six Namibian traditional authorities received vehicles worth a total of 4.29 million Namibian dollars in Otjiwarongo, or 715,000 Namibian dollars per vehicle. The handover, carried out by Oonani Investments Group, the commercial arm of the Namibia Traditional Authorities Trust, took place in the presence of James Sankwasa, minister of urban and rural development, according to Observer24.
The initiative is funded by revenue from fishing quotas allocated by the government to the trust. The vehicles are intended to provide chiefs and traditional leaders with the means to attend community meetings, carry out their administrative duties and respond to rural development needs, according to Observer24.
Observer24 nevertheless says the allocation raises questions about the balance between supporting traditional authorities, using public resources and building a shared national identity. The media outlet recalls that Namibia’s Constitution protects cultural, linguistic and religious diversity, while calling for traditional institutions to be prevented from becoming arenas for ethnic rivalries, succession conflicts or competition for access to resources. It cites in this regard the vision associated with former Tanzanian leader Julius Nyerere, according to which national allegiance must take precedence over tribal affiliations, without eliminating cultures and traditions.
