The Redline, a historic barrier in Namibia, has once again
come into the limelight. As court cases continue to unfold, the debate rages on
- is this a matter of economic consideration, or are there political
machinations at play? It's crucial for Namibians to reflect and deliberate on
this pressing issue.
For someone like me, who was born and brought up outside the
Redline and has a deep understanding of our nation's history, it's clear that
the court case revolves around political motives. I hail from the vast expanse
of Kunene, a region uniquely split with one half inside and the other outside
the Redline. My perspective on this contentious matter leans towards an
economic approach rather than the politically charged tactics we witness today.
Historically, Kunene had a system in place to quarantine its
small livestock. This was functional until the 2015 foot-and-mouth outbreak in
Zambezi. Surprisingly, post the outbreak, the government halted the movement of
small livestock through quarantine, offering no explanation. Even after years,
the reasons remain undisclosed. This inexplicable decision severely impacts
communal farmers, especially when considering that regions like Kunene have not
recorded any foot-and-mouth cases since 1948. This 75-year streak is
commendable, especially when we consider natural barriers like the Kunene
river, which, by law, is regarded as a fence.
It's high time for regions like Kunene and other communal
areas within the Redline to mobilize. They should lobby for Kunene's fencing
separation from Omusati and call for a resumption of the previously halted
quarantine procedures. Tackling the Redline issue with sensitivity is vital. If
mishandled, it risks creating further divisions, especially among communities
like the Ovaherero. Political motives seem to fuel such divisions, which, from
a Traditional Authority perspective, is a worrisome development.
But let's dive deeper.
Imagine if the Redline was eradicated today. This drastic
action would equate the plight of the communal farmers inside the Redline to
those outside it. An overnight change might appease some, but it would not
guarantee better prices for the livestock, which is a significant concern for
those outside the Redline. In fact, such a move might even detrimentally impact
the economy.
White farmers, foreseeing the potential for political
intervention regarding the Redline, have constructed taller fences around their
farms. This wasn't a mere aesthetic choice or a whim; it was a calculated
decision. They anticipated that political moves could lead to the removal of
the Redline, without adequate economic considerations. The Fencing Proclamation
57 of 1921 specifies the height for fences in the Redline. Those who've built
higher than the mandated height, primarily white farmers, have effectively
insulated themselves from any potential changes to the Redline. In contrast, if
the Redline were to be abolished today, it's the black farmers within the
Redline who'd bear the brunt.
I propose an economically driven approach to this matter:
Research and Education: Comprehensive studies, like the ones
I've conducted for Kunene, should be the basis for any decision-making.
Economic decisions should stem from concrete data rather than emotions or
political whims.
Engage with Clean Areas: Zones that have maintained a clean
record concerning foot-and-mouth disease should be allowed to quarantine and
manage their livestock autonomously, based on their past track records.
National Dialogue: Hosting a dialogue on this matter will
provide a platform for varied perspectives, facilitating a more comprehensive
understanding. Feedback from these dialogues can offer insights into how
Namibians genuinely feel about this issue.
In conclusion, the Redline debate is not just about lines on
a map. It's about people, their livelihoods, and the future of our nation. It's
a call to transition from political posturing to economically sound
decision-making, ensuring a prosperous future for all Namibians.
Comment below let me hear your views
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