8 years since farm power lines cleared
The clearing of bushes on many power lines that run through farms has not been done for the last eight years.This information was obtained during a discussion between the Namibia Agriculture Union (NAU) and NamPower.
The union said many of the lines are so overgrown that NamPower vehicles cannot travel the terrain to inspect, maintain or repair it.
“In terms of NamPower power supply contracts, farm owners are responsible to keep these lines on their farms - that directly supply them with power - clear of bushes and drivable.”
However, the NAU said it is NamPower’s responsibility to keep other power lines clear that run through farms.
There are three options to clear these lines, it said.
It can either be done by using NamPower resources, farmers can clear them themselves or contractors can be used.
“If farmers prefer to do it themselves, because they do not want strangers on their land, they can enter into an agreement with NamPower in terms of which they will then clean the lines for fair compensation.”
For larger lines, NamPower can use contractors on tender, the union said.
Sauma gains independence
In other news, the NAU said the Stampriet Aquifer Uranium Mine Association (Sauma) is now independent and has also opened its own bank account.
According to the union, drilling permit applications to the agriculture ministry made by prospectors intending to operate within the Stampriet Aquifer Water Control Area are currently not being processed.
This is because the ministry is investigating proposed mining activities in drinking water sources, which may result in pollution.
The union said it appears that the mines ministry’s Mineral Ancillary Rights Commission invites individual farmers who are currently denying the prospector access to their land to appear before the commission to discuss the denial, in respect of an application for additional rights.
“Legal aid is currently being sought,” it added.
In addition to a large financial contribution to Sauma, the union has decided to make a year's salary and office space available to an individual who will pay full-time attention to the uranium
situation.
“Sauma will need great financial support to oppose this matter, and appeals to everyone – whether an individual, business or organisation - to contribute and ensure a safe future for our children.”
Farmers' associations are also encouraged to make financial contributions, so that legal expertise can be sought.