Kharas Governor, Aletha Frederick has urged inhabitants of the region to reject the destructive forces of tribalism, racism, and regionalism, which she said serve as catalysts for societal discord and disaster.

Delivering her fifth State of the Region Address (SORA) here on Wednesday, Frederick said the presence of self-destructive tendencies and qualities can impede social cohesiveness and economic advancement, resulting in obstacles to collaboration and unity within various cultures.

She said ||Kharas shines as the country’s southern gem and economic powerhouse, driving the nation’s economy forward with its wealth of natural resources. The region, she noted is characterised by its significant economic strengths, primarily anchored in mining, fishing, agriculture, and tourism has positioned it as a key player in propelling Namibia towards economic prosperity.

The governor added that while such sectors have historically underpinned the region’s economic framework, contributing substantially to the gross do
mestic product and providing numerous employment opportunities for residents with the development of green hydrogen, oil and gas, and the Neckartal dam green scheme development, ||Kharas stands at a crucial juncture in its history, poised to harness its economic potential to uplift its people while addressing longstanding challenges.

‘As we navigate this path towards progress and prosperity, let us strive to create a future where every citizen of the ||Kharas Region, wherever the mentioned developments are taking place, is enabled to thrive and prosper,’ she said.

Further, the governor said the need to grow human capital in the developing global economy cannot be emphasised enough. Education plays a fundamental role in providing individuals with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the labour market, Frederick said.

‘Developing a strong education system is therefore crucial for both personal job prospects and overall socio-economic progress. Thus, considering the forthcoming advancements
in green hydrogen and oil and gas, it is crucial to underscore the importance of enhancing human capital through education and skills training,’ she said.

Frederick noted that institutions of higher learning in the region such as the University of Namibia, Namibia University of Science and Technology, I-Care, the Namibian Institute of Mining and Technology, and the upcoming Keetmanshoop vocational training centre offer the youth tremendous opportunities.

Source : The Namibia News Agency