The Karasburg West Constituency Councillor urges Government to proclaim Noordoewer settlement a town, as its population increases. Paulus Ephraim was speaking at a meeting with Urban and Rural Development Minister, Peya Mushelenga, on Friday. He said the settlement’s population currently stands at 5 000, increased by growth in the grape farming industry. The councillor said some 3 980 residents applied for erven. Ephraim urged Government to consider opening an airport that may be used for export of local products. Mushelenga said the //Karas Regional Council should do a feasibility study of the settlement being proclaimed a town, which the council should submit to his ministry. Sonop Farm Director Albert van der Merwe said the South has great potential for farming, because of the weather condition and abundant water sources. Van der Merwe said there is high demand for raisins worldwide, and Namibia may tap into the market in the South, which provides employment to many.