PDM challenges government decision to end drought relief

The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) has raised serious concerns over the Office of the Prime Minister’s (OPM) decision to scale down drought relief food distribution in parts of the country. The opposition party has labelled the move premature and potentially dangerous, particularly for severely affected regions like Kunene and Erongo, where communities are still struggling with food insecurity and worsening livestock losses.

According to a recent government announcement, certain areas no longer qualify for drought assistance following a reassessment of needs. However, PDM Secretary General Manuel Ngaringombe says the data used to inform that decision does not reflect the on-the-ground reality in the most hard-hit regions.

“We are demanding transparency and clear justification from the OPM,” Ngaringombe said. “People in Kunene are still eating once a day—if at all. Livestock are dying, and water is scarce. This is no time for the government to abandon its humanitarian obligations.”

Ngaringombe warned that suspending food aid before the next rainy season could push vulnerable households further into crisis, especially subsistence farmers already weakened by years of climate shocks and recurring droughts.

Namibia is currently in the grips of another devastating dry spell, with rainfall levels in parts of the northwest among the lowest recorded in decades. The Namibia Meteorological Service recently cautioned that below-normal rainfall is expected to persist in some regions until early 2026, increasing the pressure on both food systems and rural livelihoods.

Local leaders and NGOs have echoed PDM’s sentiments, urging the government to reassess its decision and prioritize food security in remote, marginalized areas.

The OPM has yet to respond to the party’s formal letter demanding a breakdown of the criteria used to determine drought relief eligibility, and what alternative interventions—if any—will be offered to struggling communities.

The post PDM challenges government decision to end drought relief first appeared on Future Media News.

The post PDM challenges government decision to end drought relief appeared first on Future Media News.