By: Annakleta Haikera
Various entrepreneurs in Kavango East have raised concerns over the lack of facilities to support tourism, saying the situation is limiting opportunities for economic growth and diversification.
This came to light during a visit by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources on Wednesday.
Local farmers said Rundu has no designated facilities to attract tourists.
The tourism sector which comprises local and foreign tourists alike is one of the few sectors which also feeds other industries.
Town such as those in the coastal areas continue to invest in their local attractions to attract visitors. Similarly, Windhoek also prioritises toursism as a key sector to promote.
The entrepreneurs also voiced that there is an absence of an aquaculture office in the region. This, they say, is a big oversight, as fish farmers lack guidance on how to effectively tap into the industry.
The building intended to cater for fish farmers has stood abandoned for about 13 years since construction began.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, the N$16 million infrastructure project started in 2012.
It is reported that the initial contractor was replaced for failing to adhere to the original scope, and African Silver Engineering was later appointed to complete the work in 2018.
However, progress stalled due to payment issues, leaving the building deserted ever since.
Rudolph Haingura, one of the farmers, noted that despite the region’s proximity to rivers, many farmers have yet to explore fish farming. He said this was a missed opportunity to diversify agricultural activities and improve household incomes.
“With the right training, resources, and support from authorities, farmers could tap into aquaculture,” he suggested.
“This would not only improve food security, but also create jobs, especially during droughts or seasonal drops in crop production,” Haingura added.
Another farmer, Johannes Ipinge Murenga, shared his personal experience of building a fish pond at home, which proved highly successful.
He expressed frustration that while authorities are quick to arrest those fishing illegally, they have failed to provide training or support for fish farming.
Furthermore, farmers in conservancy areas revealed there are no structured plans for trophy hunting, another potential revenue stream that could boost tourism and benefit local communities.
The parliamentary standing committee chairperson, Tobie Aupindi, acknowledged the concerns, stressing the urgent need to rehabilitate the abandoned facility, launch fish farming initiatives, and develop strategies to promote both tourism and sustainable fisheries in Rundu.
