Maria David
TSUMEB has long been a center of industrial and entrepreneurial activity, from its rich mining history to its growing prominence as an industrial hub of the Oshikoto Region.
This was according to Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, in a speech read on her behalf during the official opening of the Tsumeb Copper Festival on Friday.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said that Tsumeb holds the potential to unlock new business opportunities essential for economic growth and development.
“The proximity of Tsumeb to major road networks, such as the Trans-Kunene, Trans-Caprivi, Trans-Kalahari, and Tsumeb-Katwitwi Roads, which connect to the SADC region and southern Angola, as well as the railway network that passes through Tsumeb, puts this town in a favorable position to boost domestic and regional trade,” she said.
She added that Tsumeb’s economic activities are not limited to mining but extend to agricultural production, driven by the commitment of its people, who have been dedicated farmers and entrepreneurs for many years.
Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted the vital role that productive commercial farmers in the Tsumeb area play in food production, contributing to food self-sufficiency.
She also said that this agricultural productivity creates employment opportunities, which is critical for poverty eradication within communities in the Oshikoto Region and beyond.
Nandi-Ndaitwah pointed out that the provision of essential services is central to the Tsumeb Municipal Council’s objectives. The Council has embarked on several projects aimed at enhancing residents’ quality of life.
“The Council has allocated a budget of at least N$115 million toward various infrastructure development projects currently underway,” she added.
To address the housing backlog, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the Tsumeb Municipality has initiated the construction of municipal services for 295 erven in Namtsoub Extension 9.
These developments include roads, water, sewer, and electrical services, as well as the rehabilitation of Namutoni Road.
In addition, the Municipality is nearing completion of a Water Sand Filtration Treatment Plant, which will soften and treat drinking water for Tsumeb residents.
