By:Uakutura Kambaekua
The towns of Okakarara and Ongwediva have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to renew the cooperation agreement as both local authorities seek to realise development goals in strategic areas of cooperation.
Last week the two sister towns renewed their cooperation agreement that they signed in 2017. The agreement is set to see the two towns continue to foster a mutual relationship and cooperation to bring tangible economic welfare to theirresidents.
The two towns have a twinning agreement since 2008, which has since been renewed twice.
The agreement focuses on key development areas including tourism, trade fairs, development of low-cost house delivery, and capacity building for the business community.
Confirming the agreement renewal to The Villager, the Mayor of Okakarara Asnath Kavetuna Jazukuka expressed optimism with regard the scope of the cooperation between the two sister towns, saying that the MoU will foster and boost their abilities to reach their goals and optimise results while improving the local conditions of their residents.
“The purpose of this agreement is for parties to strengthen, promote and foster the friendly relationship which exists between the two local authorities and residents of Okakarara and Ongwediva,” Jazukukasaid.
She said through the twinning agreement over the years, her town has managed to pick up a number of ideas regarding the management of the town of Ongendiva, such as the maintenance of road infrastructures and the provision of low-cost housing order to do away with shacks, as well as the attraction of potential investors through public private partnerships (PPPs) initiatives.
“From the last agreement, we learned a lot about strategies they use when it comes to maintaining road infrastructure to bitumen standards and the development of low-cost housing, giving plots by inviting potential investors and entering intojoint ventures, and hosting a successful trade fair,” she added.
The Mayor said her town is currently in other similar agreements with Windhoek, Otjiwarongo, Karibib and Otjinene Village Council.
Ongwediva and Okakarara are known for hosting most successful trade fairs over the years, which have become some of the leading national and international exhibition events in th country.
The two towns have a combined population of more than 25 000 residents.
Okakarara, Ongwediva Ink MoU To Extend Cooperation
