Renthia Kaimbi
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has appointed a new Land Reform Advisory Commission as Namibia intensifies efforts to redistribute commercial agricultural land and address historical land inequalities.
The ministry bid farewell to nine outgoing commissioners and welcomed a new team during an induction workshop held at the Windhoek Country Club Resort on Wednesday.
Deputy minister of agriculture, fisheries, water and land reform Ruthy Masake, speaking on behalf of minister Inge Zaamwani, said land reform remains one of Namibia’s most urgent national priorities.
Masake thanked outgoing commissioners Aune Shipanga, Winnie Mwilima, Jacobina Amulungu, Maria Immanuel, Spendu Tjipe, Jan Jarson, Jason Emvula, Martin Hilbert and Emmanuel Masule“Land reform in our country seeks to address historical injustices that have deprived many of our people access to productive land and economic opportunities. At the same time, whilst recognising specific considerations, land reform must also remain forward-looking, ensuring that land becomes a productive national asset that is capable of supporting rural livelihoods, creating jobs, strengthening our agricultural productive base and, broadly speaking, contributing to Namibia’s development goals,” she said. for their service and contribution to land reform matters.
The new commission officially started its term on 1 May 2026 and will serve until 30 April 2029.
Commissioner Alfred Sikopo will serve as acting chairperson, while Petrus Canisius Nangolo returns as deputy chairperson. Other returning members are Charles Uugwanga, Frans Kamati and Paulus Hausiku.
New members include Petrina Mpahleni, Alexandria Angala, Thomas Uuyuni, Adolf Muremi, Kay-Dieter Rumpf, Manfred Rukoro and Nguvitjita Kapere.
Masake reminded members that the commission was established under the Agricultural (Commercial) Land Reform Act of 1995 to advise the minister on the acquisition, allocation and administration of commercial agricultural land.
She said the commission plays an important role in supporting government efforts to address unequal land ownership and promote fair access to land.
According to Masake, the commission also acts as a link between government and communities by advising the minister on public expectations around land reform.
She outlined the commission’s responsibilities under the law, which include making recommendations to the minister, investigating land reform matters and advising on issues related to the implementation of the act.
Masake said addressing historical land imbalances requires commitment and collective effort.
She added that land reform remains necessary in addressing the social, economic and political effects of Namibia’s colonial history.
The ministry has organised a three-day induction workshop to prepare the new commissioners for their duties. The commission is expected to hold its first ordinary meeting on Friday.
Masake assured the new members of the ministry’s support and expressed confidence in their ability to strengthen Namibia’s land reform programme.
“I trust that the commission will find your expertise refreshing and useful,” she said.
