Gobabis: Questions about transfer of land
Irregularities allegedly mar the process
A group of Gobabis residents are challenging the recent transfer of Farm Nuwehoop to the offices of the governor of the Omahake region, as well as that of the mayor of Gobabis, saying dat due process was not followed.The land in question aims to tackle hunger, poverty and unemployment in the region by means of intended agricultural projects, says the town's mayor, Melba Tjozongoro.
However, the explanation was not well received, with allegations that the transfer of the land is marred by irregularities.
"We find ourselves in a situation in which we cannot say what the benefits are that the community of Gobabis will enjoy. We are not convinced of the benefits of the project," reads a petition drawn up by the group. "The governor and mayor must show us a clear business plan that highlights and describes each component of the project in detail. To support the project, we want to see the registration of the legal entity that will oversee the entire project."
The group also insists on a comprehensive breakdown of the costs and start-up capital needed to transform Farm Nuwehoop into a full-fledged agricultural project.
They refer to the law for local authorities which clearly sets out the procedures to be followed, with "our political office bearers having to be at the forefront of complying with legislation".
"We don't need to quote the law; the governor and our councilors should know it and live by it. If the governor and the mayor present their business plan and the council decides to transfer Nuwehoop to them, please let it be for fewer hectares and at least for a lease period of three years at the market-related price," said the group.
Tjozongoro said the correct procedures were followed "to the letter" with a formal request made by Omaheke's governor, Pijoo Nganate.
The governor apparently sent a letter to the management committee for approval. Despite the request for land in July this year, the town council met - not as scheduled - while two councilors boycotted it. This led to the council not being able to accept the transfer of land as an item on the agenda.
According to Tjozongoro, the council was therefore unable to make the transfer.
"The mayor's office is no different from the municipality itself. The council as guardian of the state land cannot give or transfer land to itself. No land was given," she said.
Tjozongoro defended the planned transfer of land and described it as a wonderful initiative.
"The governor's initiative is great, because one of the local government's roles is to create indirect jobs through development projects, such as donating land to developers and bringing in investors," Tjozongoro said.
Extensive consultations will be held with the residents of Omaheke once all procedures have been completed.
"Extensive consultation with our residents will be followed after all procedures have been completed and when people are to be employed."