Epikuro’s Tsjaka settlement expansion threatens grazing land

By: Rudolf Iyambo

The Bakgalagadi Traditional Authority in the Omaheke Region has expressed concern over the increasing number of people erecting residential structures at the Tsjaka settlement in Epikuro, saying the development is making it difficult for farmers to keep livestock due to limited grazing land.

The area, which was initially established for livestock farming, has gradually developed into a residential settlement.

The authority’s Senior Traditional Councillor, Norman Baumakwe, said the increasing number of people settling at Tsjaka has left little land for farmers to expand their farming activities.

Baumakwe said this also limits the number of livestock farmers can keep.

Baumakwe said sheep farmers face an additional challenge, with a poisonous plant found throughout the area killing the livestock.

The senior councillor added unemployment among young people is widespread, forcing many to rely on herding livestock for other families as a source of income.

Baumakwe said the area now includes residents from about ten surrounding farms, further reducing the land available for livestock production.

He called on the government to introduce policies that protect Tsjaka’s farming purpose while addressing overcrowding and creating employment opportunities.

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