This report provides an overview of the socio‑economic conditions in the Ovambo region, home to more than 40% of Namibia’s population. The study focuses particularly on livestock production while highlighting the longstanding economic and administrative neglect experienced in Ovambo as well as in other northern regions such as Kavango, Kaokoland, and Caprivi. Due to under‑development, limited quantitative and qualitative data exist, and decades of conflict have further disrupted traditional social structures, livelihood strategies, and daily life. As a result, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding contemporary household organisation and resource‑use practices. This report examines these issues and outlines the challenges faced by rural communities in managing an increasingly strained natural resource base.