Niël Terblanché
Namibians have been called on to support their fellow citizens during a severe drought that has the country in a firm grip.
President Nangolo Mbumba on Monday declared a National Disaster State of Emergency in response to the escalating crisis.
Rhingo Mutambo, spokesperson for the office of the Executive Director in the Prime Minister’s office, emphasized the gravity of the situation.
“The declaration of the State of Emergency signals the severity of the drought in Namibia and serves as a call to action for the private sector, development partners, and the international community to support the government’s efforts with additional resources,” said Mutambo.
The declaration, grounded in Article 26(1) of the Namibian Constitution and Section 30(3) of the Disaster Risk Management Act, 2012 (Act No. 10 of 2012), highlights the widespread prevalence of drought conditions across all 14 regions of the country.
Mutambo said that the drought poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of affected households, necessitating urgent relief interventions.
The government has allocated N$825 million for the drought relief programme for the 2024/25 financial year.
However, Mutambo stated that additional resources are essential to fully implement the programme and protect lives and livelihoods.
“The severity of the drought situation requires a collaborative effort from all sectors of society to ensure the most vulnerable receive the necessary support,” he added.
He added that Namibia joins other member states of the South African Development Community (SADC) facing similar drought conditions.
SADC Heads of State, in a show of regional solidarity last week, have approved the regional body’s Drought Appeal, which is a joint call for assistance to affected member states.
Mutambo reiterated that the government urges all Namibians to prioritise aid for those most in need.
He stressed that all contributions to the drought relief programme should be coordinated through the Executive Director of the Office of the Prime Minister to ensure an organised and effective response.
Mutambo added that the National Assembly will consider extending the State of Emergency period if deemed necessary.
The State of Emergency came into effect on 22 May and all Namibians are called upon to stand together and support each other in overcoming the challenges posed by this severe drought.
