Maria David
NAMIBIAN farmers grazing in southern Angola are appealing for permission to continue their grazing activities in compliance with both the laws of Angola and Namibia.
This appeal was made during a ministerial meeting with Ambassador Téte António, the Minister of External Relations of Angola, held at Helao Nafidi on Friday.
Daniel Mbangula, the spokesperson for the farmers, also called for further engagements between Namibian farmers grazing in Angola. He emphasized the need for discussions on key issues such as marketing and investment opportunities in Angola, various opportunities in grazing areas, and measures to control illegal activities.
“We also plead that punishment should be imposed on those individuals who violate the rules and regulations of the Republic of Angola,” he added.
Mbangula expressed gratitude to the government of Angola for allowing Namibian farmers to graze in the country, contributing to their survival and livelihood.
Ambassador António assured Namibians that Angola is open to all, but he emphasized the importance of respecting the laws in place. He highlighted the long-lasting relationship between the two countries, dating back to the colonial era, which has forged a strong bond between the two peoples.
Sebastian Ndeitunga, the governor of Ohangwena, added that the practice of Namibians grazing in Angola has deep roots in family, traditional, and cultural ties that historically unite the people. Ndeitunga highlighted that local people have families and friends on both sides of the common borders.
