Sampofu calls for strengthened international cooperation
By Martha Nangombe
Zambezi Regional governor, Lawrence Sampofu, emphasized the challenges faced by his region due to its geographical location and the necessity of strong international cooperation.
In a recent address, Sampofu acknowledged the challenges posed by the region’s porous borders, which have contributed to increased cross-border crimes, such as stock theft and illegal timber harvesting. He cited limited budget allocations as a significant obstacle to completing planned national projects.
“Zambezi Region has become a temporary home for asylum seekers and refugees from various countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Cameroon, Russia, and Sudan. With no reception area in the region, 429 asylum seekers from 13 countries have been registered and transported to the Osire Refugee Settlement,” he stated.
Sampofu added that the lack of green schemes has impacted food security and job creation.
“A critical issue we are facing is non-production of green schemes, which has significantly impacted food security and job creation in the region. Illegal fishing practices have also persisted, with authorities confiscating 1,459 illegal fishing items and 1.6 tons of fish. These ongoing violations indicate a continued resistance among local communities to comply with fisheries management laws,” he added.
He further said the lack of functional vehicles in critical sectors like Rural Water Supply and Agriculture and the vandalism of public infrastructure has further hindered development efforts.
In addition, the region needs more office space and personnel in some ministries and directorates, affecting the quality of service delivery.
Sampofu urged all office bearers and the community of the Zambezi Region to approach the coming year with courage, compassion, and determination.
He reminded the audience of the late President’s declaration of 2024/25 as the “Year of Expectation,” encouraging everyone to work closely with the central government to ensure the successful execution of national projects.
“The challenges we encountered during the year under review should be the ladder to maximize productivity in all sectors of development. Let us strive for progress and prosperity, let us never lose sight of our shared values and commitment to serving the common good of developing our country. May we continue to unite and be guided by the principles of justice and equality for development.” Sampofu pleaded.
Sampofu highlighted the success of the Botswana-Namibia Bi-National Commission, which has laid the groundwork for enhanced cooperation between the two nations.
This collaboration led to the creating of a Joint Technical Committee by their respective defence forces, resulting in the developing of a Civil-Military Cooperation Plan.
The plan, now operational, aims to protect the territorial integrity of both nations and safeguard local communities. As part of this initiative, awareness campaigns have been launched along riverine borders to address illegal border crossings, fishing, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts.
The region, which borders four to five countries, requires a well-coordinated working environment to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.
Sampofu also addressed ongoing efforts to resolve cattle rustling issues with Zambia, a persistent problem that has strained relations between communities along the porous border.
Additionally, establishing a One Stop Border Post at Katima Mulilo is progressing, with a signed bilateral agreement between Namibia and Zambia.