Patience Makwele
Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has called for stricter accountability in the implementation of public projects, warning that delays cost communities employment opportunities and reduce the benefits of government spending.
Ngurare made the remarks in a prepared statement read on his behalf by Kavango East Governor Hamunyera Hambyuka at the official opening of the ninth Rundu Annual Trade Fair on Monday.
“Delays in implementation get postponed employment opportunities, disappoint communities, and reduce the intended impact of public investment,” he said.
Ngurare said Rundu Town Council received N$75 million for infrastructure improvements during the 2025/26 financial year, while N$3.5 million was allocated for the construction of informal trading platforms in the 2026/27 financial year.
He said the priority was to ensure that the allocations produced completed projects, better municipal services and more economic opportunities for residents.
Ngurare called for stronger accountability, proper planning and efficient implementation of approved projects, saying public spending must improve people’s daily lives.
“Budget allocation must translate into functioning infrastructure, improved public services, and opportunities that make a real difference in the lives of our citizens,” he said.
Rundu town council management committee chairperson Joseph Kamakende said technology offered small and medium-sized enterprises opportunities to improve productivity, reach customers and expand their markets.
He encouraged businesses participating in the trade fair to exchange knowledge, explore digital solutions and establish partnerships that could continue beyond the event.
Kamakende said the success of the trade fair should also be measured by the investments attracted, partnerships established and business opportunities created.
This year’s event is being held under the theme “Embracing Technology for Sustainable Business Growth”.
Ngurare said Rundu’s location along major trade routes and its proximity to neighbouring countries offered opportunities in agriculture, timber, tourism, agro-processing and cross-border trade.
He urged the town council to improve municipal services, provide serviced land for commercial and industrial activities and address infrastructure challenges facing businesses.
He also called on established businesses to support smaller enterprises through mentorship, local procurement and partnerships.
Ngurare said processing agricultural products locally could strengthen markets for farmers, retain more economic value within Kavango East and create employment.
He urged government, local authorities, businesses and communities to work together to ensure development projects deliver tangible benefits.
