The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform (MAFWLR), Inge I. Zaamwani, from 10–12 December 2025 visited Batswana of Namibian descent who recently relocated from Botswana to Namibia. The visit took place at the reception area in Gam, Otjozondjupa Region.
The Minister reaffirmed Government’s commitment to fully integrate the returnees into Namibian society, acknowledging challenges while stressing the importance of unity, orderly relocation and respect for the rule of law. She highlighted that a Cabinet-approved Steering Committee, led by her Ministry, is overseeing the repatriation process and reporting progress to Cabinet.
“The Government is committed to supporting your full integration into Namibian society. While challenges remain, we believe that together we can build sustainable homes for current and future generations,” she said.
She stressed that unity, cohesion and cooperation between Government and the community are essential for the success of the relocation and integration process, urging the group to avoid internal divisions and negative narratives that could undermine progress.
Minister Zaamwani outlined key developments, including the establishment of the Gam reception area, land allocation at Otjipaheua by the Kambazembi Traditional Authority, modern water infrastructure, a multipurpose kraal, and the acquisition of six farms subdivided into farming units. She revealed that Government has invested more than N$115 million in the initiative, covering infrastructure, food rations, sanitation, security and land acquisition.
She announced that families who arrived from September 2025 onwards will begin relocating to Otjipaheua for farming plot allocations, with the process expected to be completed by the end of January 2026. Eight families will also be allocated farming units, with occupancy required within 30 days. While broader infrastructure such as roads, clinics and schools falls outside her Ministry’s mandate, she said engagements are underway to include these developments in future budgets.
The Minister concluded by thanking her predecessor, Calle Schlettwein, the Kambazembi Traditional Authority, regional leaders, government institutions and the media for their support. She commended the returnees for their resilience and patriotism, assuring them of Government’s continued support, and extended festive season wishes ahead of the New Year 2026.
