Maria David
MINISTER of Urban and Rural Development Erastus Uutoni emphasized that it is crucial to remember that communities expect the Town Council to deliver services using the public resources entrusted to their care.
Uutoni was speaking during the handover ceremony of infrastructure services for the financial year 2023/24 at Outapi on Wednesday.
According to Uutoni, these public resources include infrastructure, funds, equipment, and the staff complement.
“It is once again expected of you to deliver services and ensure that the needs of everyone in the community are catered for without discrimination on the basis of political affiliation, tribe, religion, and so forth,” he said.
He added that as local authority councils, they are the link between the Central Government and their respective communities. Thus, the responsibilities entrusted to them as political leaders and managers are of enormous magnitude, as the people of Namibia depend on their decisions and performance.
Uutoni indicated that as leaders, they have the duty and responsibility to ensure that services in their respective municipalities are delivered successfully and competently.
He also said that the successful completion of projects will significantly improve five key informal settlement extensions: Oukwa-Wananyanga, Okayekongwe, Okakwaka-Nakale, Nakayale Ext. 2, and Tobias Hainyeko.
“These areas have long awaited upgrades in infrastructure, and it is with great pride that I commend the Outapi Town Council’s dedication to delivering essential services,” he added.
According to Uutoni, the impressive investment of over N$11 million, made possible through the collaboration between the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development and contributions from the Outapi Town Council’s own resources, is more than just a financial commitment—it’s a powerful declaration of our dedication to equitable development.
This considerable funding has been carefully managed and strategically allocated to ensure that every resident in these key areas receives high-quality and affordable services. By focusing on essential infrastructure improvements, we demonstrate our unwavering commitment to building stronger communities and creating lasting positive change.
Uutoni also indicated that Outapi Town Council is one of the councils doing well in terms of service delivery to the people.
Meanwhile, Town Mayor Selma Asino indicated that the infrastructure services are a combined effort, with resources from the central government amounting to over N$7.4 million, while the council contributed over N$4 million from their own resources.