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Namibia berries investigated for land acquisition without chief's approval

Kavango East's traditional leaders are currently investigating the circumstances under which Namibia Berries acquired land without the approval of Hambukushu Chief Erwin Mbambo. The company, promising to create 8,000 jobs and invest N$1.5 billion (US$ 86 355 786), faces a stand-off regarding land allocation. This inquiry was triggered by local families' allegations of being dispossessed of their land, with Namibia Berries securing a plot near Ndongo village.

The situation has drawn attention due to the involvement of significant investments, such as a 15% stake acquisition by Eos Capital's Euphrates Agri Fund. The controversy extends to the Namibia Competition Commission fining Bank of Namibia Governor Johannes Gawaxab over his interest in Eos Capital. Michael Mutondo, secretary of the Hambukushu Traditional Authority, highlighted the lack of consent from Chief Mbambo and the surprise over the unauthorized land acquisition.

Local villagers have raised concerns over the land being taken or sold without their consent. The traditional authority is investigating these claims, with discussions on potential actions against those selling the land without approval. The process of land acquisition by Namibia Berries, as explained by director Michèle James, involves compensating affected community members, with oversight from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform.

Despite the company's efforts to integrate community needs, such as building a new church for in-kind compensation, the acquisition process has been described as cumbersome by Namibia Berries' CEO Michael Rodenburg. He suggested that simplifying land acquisition could attract more investment to Namibia. However, the legitimacy of the project's establishment has been questioned by local authorities and community members, pointing to procedural lapses and the lack of consultation with the Hambukushu Traditional Authority.

Accusations of illegal land expropriation by the Divundu Village Council have emerged, with villagers citing a lack of consultation and approval from relevant authorities. Despite claims of fair compensation by Mukwe constituency councilor Damian Maghambayi and the investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman finding no human rights violations, the dispute highlights the complexities of land acquisition and community relations in Namibia.

As the project progresses, the Divundu Village Council has engaged in community consultations, emphasizing employment opportunities for the youth. However, the lack of transparency regarding compensation and the exclusion of the Hambukushu chief from the land acquisition process remain contentious issues.

Source: the Namibian

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