Construction of the Okangoho crush pen, an initiative of the Meatco Foundation and partner UNIL (Norwegian Group), is nearing completion and will soon be in operation.

The Okangoho Multipurpose Co-operative with over 250 members is looking forward to conducting business in the first modern crush pen of its kind in the Okakarara area.

Chairperson of the co-operative, Job Katjitae, said the crush pen will not only serve as a livestock marketing hub for the area, but will also be crucial in the treatment of injuries and vaccination of livestock.

Treasurer of the co-operative, Abiud Katuutja, could not hide his excitement because of the pace at which the crush pen is taking shape. He said he is pleased that construction work is moving forward as planned.

“The crush pen will improve socio-economic conditions of the community, because on auction days not only livestock owners come here, but other individuals who set up their businesses to sell other products, so it is a welcome development,” Katuutja said.

Okangoho is a rural settlement located 46km northeast of Okakarara at an intersection leading to places such as Otjituuo, Coblenz and Okamatapati