MIB Bulletin March 2009 - Namibian Government

Government Information
Republic of Namibia
Bulletin
“ECN should ensure credible electoral
March 2009
process” says President Pohamba
FREE
1
The Head of State and Chairman of the Cabinet, President Hifikepunye Pohamba reflecting on good governance and democracy
and on the upcoming Presidential and National Assembly Elections at the end of the year

In This Issue
Veterans Parliament in Outapi labour office

Registration Pictures opened
Page 12 Page 10-11 Page 17-18

From the Desk of the Minister Contents
In 2009, eligible Namibian voters “ECN should ensure credible electoral process,” says
will go to the polls for the 4th time in
independent Namibia to participate in President Pohamba........................................................... 1
the Presidential and General elections.
What makes this election year special Government continues to implement development
is the fact that those born since
independence will for the first time be programmes unabated..................................................... 3-4
able to cast their vote for the leaders of
their choice. The born-frees have never Omusati Regional Council Started session for 2009........ 4-5
experienced apartheid or oppression,
nor do they have first-hand experience Omusati Regional Education launches Performance
of Namibia’s protracted liberation
struggle. Improvement Strategy..................................................... 5
Hon. Joël Kaapanda,
Minister of Information and
Communication Technology Continuous voter registration is ongoing “Health managers and leaders should not betray trust
throughout Namibia and our born-frees
should make use of the opportunity to register to be able to vote in the and confidence of government,” says Dr. Kamwi............ 6-7
upcoming elections. Eligible voters must feel obliged to participate in
democratic elections to help shape the destiny of Namibia. Ohorongo Cement Factory opens..................................... 7-8
Nineteen years into independence the Land of the Brave is still enjoying Namibia Institute of Public Administration (NIPAM)
peace, tolerance and stability – the cornerstones necessary to attract
foreign investment and ensure growth and development. As Namibians close to reality.................................................................. 8
we should jealously guard those values. With the upcoming elections,
voters and political parties alike should heed the words of H.E. President Improving efficiency in the Namibian Public Service....... 8-9
Hifikepunye Pohamba and avoid attitudes that may lead to confrontation
and violence. Violence during elections may affect the credibility of Parliament in Pictures..................................................... 10-11
the elections and this may not only tarnish the electoral process in the
country, but also compromise the stability we have been enjoying over Namibia chaired UN high-level meeting on drugs and
the past years.
crime................................................................................. 12
Education and health remain two of the top priorities of the Namibian
government. The Namibian youth has the right to receive a world class War veterans registration at advance stage.................... 12
education to be able to compete in the global economy. Similarly, every
Namibian should have easy access to health facilities and excellent health Namibia’s first Atomic Energy Board inaugurated........... 13-14
services. The education and health sectors feature strongly in this
edition of the Government Information Bulletin to give the population a Functions of the Atomic Energy Board............................. 14
glimpse of developments in these sectors.
Erongo held Maternal and Child Health Conference......... 15
The establishment of the Ohongoro Cement Factory near Otavi is good
news for the country as a whole, but particularly for the residents of the HIV/AIDS survey workshop shares findings.................... 16
Otavi Constituency in the Otjozondjupa region. This multi-billion dollar
investment will create job opportunities for more than 300 people, while State Hospitals and MOHSS to be restructured............... 17
Otavi will see the construction of 200 new houses in the not too distant
future. The Ohongoro Cement Factory can do for Otavi what the Scorpion Outapi labour office opened............................................. 17-18
development did for Rosh Pinah, which is now a fully-fledged town!
“Namibians should desist from negative habits but
The development at Otavi is testimony to what can happen when Namibia
attracts foreign investment. As responsible citizens we should strengthen develop Namibia” President Pohamba............................. 18
2 the government’s hand by working hard and making foreign investors
feel welcome in our midst. If Namibia becomes a preferred destination Highlights of 2008 and future plans of the
for foreign investors, there will be a noticeable increase in employment
opportunities, skills transfer and general socio-economic development. Ministry of Education........................................................ 19-20
That in turn, will help us as a nation to achieve our Vision 2030 to become
a knowledge-driven and industrialised society.
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Government Information Bulletin March 2009
“ECN should ensure credible electoral

process,” says President Pohamba
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
P resident Hifikepunye Pohamba

called on the Electoral Commission
of Namibia to work with all stakeholders
described 2009 as a momentous period in the
development and strengthening of Namibia’s
democracy due to the Presidential and National
some government-funded agricultural projects.
I believe that large tracts of land should be
placed under cultivation to increase yields and
in the preparations for the elections to Assembly Elections to take place in November. reduce importation of agricultural products,” the
facilitate a smooth and credible electoral As a result, he called on all Ministers to co- President recommended.
process. He also directed a special appeal ordinate their work methodically to enable the
to all eligible voters to register and vote smooth flow of appropriate information for the He also believed that the agricultural output
in the upcoming elections. compilation of the Election Manifesto for 2009. would result in benefits for the people in the form
of affordable food prices, diversity of produce
This is contained in the President’s statement “As leaders, our energies must be focused on and better opportunities for subsistence farmers
for the opening of the first 2009 Cabinet, in the the well-being and the improvement of the to sell their surplus at reasonable returns. He
capital early this year. living standards of all our people,” he said, called on the relevant ministries and agencies to
urging all ministries and agencies to implement attend to tackle other challenges in this sector,
President Pohamba said that it is important the development policies and programmes to including the availability of proper storage and
that the political system, at all levels, continues deliver services to all the people. marketing facilities.
to promote the values of peace, tolerance,
stability and social cohesion, saying that all “Rural development and assistance to vulnerable “The health of our people remains a priority. As
political parties must avoid attitudes that may sections of our population must continue to a result, health services must be accessible and
lead to confrontations and violence. enjoy government attention. We must also affordable. Service delivery must be intensified
pursue the achievement of the Millennium and expanded, including the provision of anti-
The Head of State reminded Namibians to learn Development Goals, as part of our anti-poverty retroviral treatment to those infected with HIV/
lasting lessons from the difficult experiences strategy,” reiterated President Pohamba. AIDS,” President Pohamba added.
of other countries where politically motivated
violence has caused untold suffering. “We He noted that the current global economic The Head of State wants the prevention of
cannot afford to repeat such mistake,” he crisis calls for innovative approaches to mother to child transmission of the virus
reiterated. minimise its impact on the country’s economy, to be stepped-up, saying that increased
saying that it demands deeper reflection and coverage and availability of treatment should
“We are proud that Namibia has consistently the development of home-grown solutions to be implemented with respect to tuberculosis,
held peaceful democratic elections since overcome the challenges faced by the people in immunisation against childhood illness, malaria
independence, where voters exercise their the short and long terms. and the recurrent outbreaks of cholera and
preference freely. This is the source of strength polio. “These efforts must be complemented by
for our democracy. It is also a measure by “One of the options is for our country to training programmes for health professionals
which the international community gauges our expand and improve agricultural output and personnel who are needed to make the
commitment to constitutional and democratic for food security and ultimately, food self- public health system responsive to the needs of
governance,” he observed. President Pohamba sufficiency. Good progress has been made on the people,” he added.
3
Government continues to implement
development programmes unabated
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
E ducation is a top priority for the

government and will continue to
receive the largest share of the national
equitable distribution of resources to all
regions and schools around the country.
in different disciplines. This, the President
explained, would enable the youth to benefit
from employment opportunities, and to initiate
budget as investment. The government President Pohamba was speaking at the first and manage income generating ventures.
has also started investing in the Education, Cabinet meeting for 2009. He noted that a
Training and Sector Improvement strong and effective education system is crucial He urged the relevant institutions to speed up
Programme (ETSIP) which President for the development of the country, adding that the establishment of vocational training centres
Hifikepunye Pohamba believes is already there is a need to expand vocational training that the government has planned for Karas,
producing good results as evident from programmes to accommodate the youth Kavango and other regions where such training
the increasing enrolment figures and who need to acquire skills and competence facilities are absent.
Continues on page 4
Government continues to implement development Continues from page 3
programmes unabated
Veterans’ Affairs to ensure that applications democracy, we must also focus on the bread
of eligible veterans are speedily processed and butter issues, including infrastructure
so that those who are eligible can access the development, housing, health, education,
monthly allowance of N$2000.00 from the rural development, social welfare and job
government. creation,” the President advised.
He believes that steady economic growth “This is another year of hard work to enhance
and value addition will enable the country’s the well-being of our people. We must not
economy to generate more jobs, foster the relent in our political commitment to make
transfer of skills and contribute to government Namibia a better place. We must unequivocally
President Hifikepunye Pohamaba revenues. The government is encouraging demonstrate that we are committed to govern
the business sector to create employment through the implementation of pragmatic
On housing, the President stated that
by maintaining stable industrial relations and policies that make a positive difference in the
housing is a basic necessity of life for all
providing incentives to investors. He welcomes lives of our people and improve the economic
human beings, saying that many families,
the envisaged development of Ohorongo trajectory of our country,” said the President.
including low income earners, have become
Cement Factory that is being established near
owners of homes through the Build Together
Otavi in the Otjozondjupa region. The implementation of NDP2, NDP3 and Vision
Programme. He recalled that the veterans
2030 provides an indication of what has been
of the liberation struggle have also been
President Pohamba reiterated that the achieved and what remains to be done. “We
provided with modern housing, noting that
government is focusing its efforts on the must put shoulder to the wheel and work for
the provision of housing goes hand-in-hand
expansion of telecommunications and physical the achievement of our goals in line with our
with improvement of health and sanitation,
infrastructure, including roads, bridges, the electoral mandate and the 2004 SWAPO Party
especially by eliminating the bucket system
national power grid, harbours and airports Election Manifesto,” he advised.
from the towns and settlements where it is
which are the backbone of the country’s
used. “We should also encourage our people
economy. “We must ensure that they are “Our foremost pre-occupation this year must
in rural areas to dig and make use of pit
always in a good state to facilitate economic be on the well-being of all our people. Our
latrines to improve sanitation,” he advised.
growth activities,” remarked the President. The energies, creativity and wisdom must be
Head of State recognises the achievements devoted to finding solutions to challenges
He said that the government will continue
each Namibian has made in various areas that face our communities. Our country will
to pay attention to the welfare of the
while he is aware that there is more to be only be as strong as the families and the
senior citizens, orphans and veterans of the
done to achieve the goals of Vision 2030. “As communities that constitute it,” reiterated the
liberation struggle, calling on the Ministry of
much as we strive for an effective and vibrant President.
Omusati Regional Council started

session for 2009
4
By Hileni Shimhulu
O musati Regional Council held its

first session for 2009 and it was
attended by different stakeholders in
the region. The session is a platform for
members and stakeholders to chart the
way forward with the aim to attain the
common objective of providing quality
services.
The Governor of the Omusati region, Hon.

Sacky Kayone, urged the Omusati community
to be proactive so that solutions are timely
found to address the development challenges
facing the region.
The region received good rainfall and there is

Omusati regional office staff and stakeholders, posing for the picture with the Hon. Governor, Sacky Kayone, in
enough water. Grazing is promising on the one the middle of the front row.
Continues on page 5
Omusati Regional Council started session for 2009 Continues from page 4
hand but stagnant water becomes breeding operate efficiently and effectively to avoid launched the Education Improvement
sites for mosquitoes that cause malaria and the loss of lives. Stakeholders were urged to Strategy and hoped that the noble dream to
other water borne diseases. remain prepared in case of the reoccurrence of bring the region to a fifth place this year will
a similar situation. be realised.
The community needs to be informed and
educated to take precautions to avoid the Hon. Kayone warned that the current financial Hon. Kayone noted that the HIV/AIDS
risk of contracting malaria. Hon. Kayone crisis has the potential to ruin and disrupt the pandemic in the region is bothersome. The
encouraged people to work hard and produce peace and stability that we all enjoy today region stands at number two at national level.
enough food to become self-sufficient in food in the region and the country. He however The region needs to re-evaluate its efforts in
production. That will help in the fight against requested the financial institutions to render the fight against the disease.
food shortages in the region. financial assistance to those who intend joining
the business sector. “With the increase in suicide cases and high
He told stakeholders that the region rate of stock theft, rape, baby dumping and
experienced floods in 2008 and some It is hoped that the region will perform many more social ills, leaders should try to
people lost their property. The efforts with better in future due to the commitment to find the root causes of the problems,” said
stakeholders are enabling the region to the improvement of education. Hon. Kayone Hon. Kayone.
Omusati Regional Education launches

Performance Improvement Strategy
By Hileni Shimhulu
T he Omusati Regional Education

dedicates itself to the Education and
Training Sector Improvement Plan (ETSIP)
quality education.
The Director
of Education in
dream as well as to the improvement of Omusati, Anna
the poor education performance in the Nghipondoka
region. emphasised
that human and
A conference was held in the region as a material resources
response to the achievement of ETSIP goals, have to be used
which will help address the identified short efficiently and fairly
comings in education towards the attainment to improve the level
of the country’s Vision 2030. of performance
that everyone can
Omusati Regional Education with its partners be proud of.
and stakeholders has a vision to provide high
quality education and technological advanced At the same event,
opportunities to all learners in Omusati. learners felt that 5
education starts Some of the participants in the workshop
Some of the ETSIP goals point to the fact at home where
that communities deserve the best education children should actions to create a strategy which respects the
and the education managers need to improve be taught discipline and their physical, solid right of every persons to quality learning,” Hon.
on what they do, teachers and parents need emotional and spiritual needs have to be Kayone emphasised.
to support learners to achieve better results supported by all stakeholders in education.
in school. The Omusati Regional Education is “Teachers and parents should work together The region has the second highest HIV/AIDS
expected to be effective and efficient so that with learners to make the best out of it,” said prevalence rate in the country. “Every one
teaching will be improved in schools. Nghipondoka. should have a responsibility to assist, in his/
her own way, those infected and affected by
The regional performance Improvement Strategy The Omusati Regional Governor, Hon. Sacky the disease. The world economy is collapsing
is implemented around four inclusive themes: Kayone, opened the conference. He expressed and soon we might face food shortage and food
Efficiency; Accountability; Transparency and his concern on the failure rates in grades 10 crisis. Agriculture should be taken seriously.
Standards. The Omusati Education Directorate and 12 in the region. “The region should strive Education should be the foundation upon which
counts on the support of all stakeholders for quality in education and improve conditions people can build a country,” said Kayone.
in achieving its mission of providing high of service of teachers. Words should be put into
“Health managers and leaders should not

betray trust and confidence of government,”
says Dr. Kamwi
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
“ The year 2009 is the most demanding

and hectic in our quest to find concrete
solutions to the multitude of public health
challenges the country is faced with and
the commitment to the promotion of
health for all Namibians.”
These were the words of the Minister of Health

and Social Services (MoHSS), Hon. Dr. Richard
Kamwi, at the Ministry’s Annual Meeting of
the Enlarged Management Committee at the
beginning of the year. Dr. Kamwi explained that
the year will bring the sector into focus given
that public health is one of the priorities of the
government. Since Namibians will go to the
polls for the Presidential and National Assembly
elections, he explained, the Ministry will be in
the public scrutiny for the quality and standard
of service delivered at the hospitals, health
centres and clinics. He saw the importance to
Hon. Dr. Richard Kamwi, Minister of Health and Social Services, making a point in his eloquent address
implement policies and programmes to ensure
quality health services for all Namibians.
resources through training programmes and wanting to travel must first be motivated with
workshops that gave staff confidence to tackle him through the relevant channels before the
“If for one or the other reason, the standard or
the challenges through the Strategic Plans trip is undertaken. “I believe this is not asking
quality of service is perceived falling short of
that would guide the activities. The Strategic too much of management and I expect nothing
expectations, the management and leadership
Plans outline a number of key strategic themes, less than cooperation from all of you. As the
of the Ministry would have betrayed the trust
objectives, measures and targets, which if well Minister, I am equally expected to motivate
and confidence of the government,” the Minister
implemented will steer achievements of the and seek approval from the Head of State first
reiterate. He urged his staff to do their best
mandate. before I travel,” he emphasised.
to maintain the highest standards of service
delivery, management, cleanliness, friendliness
The Minister noted that to achieve the Ministry’s Dr. Kamwi said that, in the past, he had given
and common courtesy in all interactions with
mandate, there is a need for strong and bold a number of directives aimed at improving the
the clients.
leadership that understands the context in way state institutions should be run and some
6 MoHSS made significant progress in several

which it operates to increased efficiency and
professionalism in service delivery. Mindful of
of them were heeded of which the outcomes
have made significant improvements. Some
areas in 2008 such as capacity building, disease
what the current global economic crisis and of the achievements were reflected in the
control, HIV/AIDS planning, consultation,
the anticipated severe constraints will have on implementation of the Task Shifting through
donor co-ordination mechanism, renovations
the government revenue, the Minister saw the the assistance received from the SWAPO
of hospitals, provision of logistical material,
need to find innovative approaches to minimise Youth League, which brought relief to the over
including vehicles and ambulances and
its impact on the country. “I believe one way stretched health workers and the youth are
outreach service. The Minister is satisfied
we can do this is by reducing our travels gaining a wealth experience.
and commended management’s efforts in
both internally and abroad, apart from those
addressing capacity building during the course
meetings which we are obliged to attend,” The Ministry recruited four hundred and thirty-
of the 2008. He stated that 2009 is a Year of
suggested Dr. Kamwi. “I am aware that this three youth volunteers, deployed to different
Implementation of the various health plans.
issue of reducing our travels in the past created regions country-wide. They have alleviated the
some tension and misunderstanding. However, pressure from nurses, especially with regard to
The Enlarged Management Committee heard
the status quo cannot continue if we are serious non-nursing tasks. The Minister commended
reports on challenges, including the floods in
about the priorities we have set for ourselves,” the youth who he described as disciplined and
the north, cholera outbreak in the Ohangwena
the Minister said. duty conscious because some of them even
and Kunene regions, and the identification of
go the extra mile to work longer hours after
the MDR and XDR TB. Dr. Kamwi reiterated
He reminded the management that trip knocking off time.
that his Ministry has enhanced its human
authorisations for all management members,
Continues on page 7
“Health managers and leaders should not betray trust and confidence Continues from page 6
of government,” says Dr. Kamwi
“I sincerely hope that this experience will • Inauguration of a number of new health strategic plan.
motivate the youth studying mathematics facilities in Oshikoto, Omaheke, Karas, • The World Health Organisation earmarking
and science subjects, which will enable Kunene, Omusati and Ohangwena regions; Namibia as one of the four SADC Member
them to pursue careers in public health,” he • Purchase of 195 vehicles including outreach States for elimination of Malaria;
emphasised. service vehicles and 16 ambulances. In • Achievement of surveillance standards
addition, the Ministry is expecting a total of for certification of Polio free status by
The Ministry has achieved the following 77 ambulances to be delivered by the end of Namibia and resulting approval by the
mile stones: 2009; Africa Regional Certification Commission;
• Capacity building especially in the area • The launching of the Demographic Health • Hosting of an African Union meeting
of medicine, pharmacy and nursing. Survey Report of 2006; for Ministers responsible for Social
Three doctors completed specialisation • The first National HIV/AIDS Voluntary Development and
programmes in Anaesthesiology, Counselling and Testing Day; and • The finalisation of the draft Strategic
Ophthalmology and Neurology; • The successful completion of the Health and Plan of the Ministry of Health and Social
• The control of Cholera outbreak in Social Services System Review culminating Services among others.
Ohangwena and Kunene regions; into the drafting and finalisation of the
Ohorongo Cement Factory opens

By Jennet Kuyonisa
and the development of Namibia’s small out that Namibian and Germany are special
towns and local authorities, proclaimed after partners, adding that the ties between the two
independence, as well as old municipalities, countries have grown since independence into
villages and settlements that are experiencing a strong and healthy relationship. “Today we
infrastructure decay. are witnessing a milestone in our economic
partnership as this factory will become
The factory will have a SADC regional Germany’s largest direct investment in Namibia.
impact, as Namibia will export some of its I am very pleased that the Schwenk Group
products to its sister countries in the region. has decided to invest €242 million (Euro) =
With regard to the investment climate, (N$ 3.146 million) in Namibia with the aim to
the President indicated that for Namibia to produce more that 700 000 tons of cement a
attract and return foreign direct investment, year,” he noted.
President Hifikepunye Pohamba and H.E. Egon Kochanke, the country has to offer the best in terms
Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany joined of incentives, efficient services, transparent The Germany Embassy has been supporting
by the management and staff of the factory.
processes, modern and efficient transport and the Schwenk Group since it first showed
A historical ground breaking ceremony

for a cement factory took place at
communication infrastructures and a safe and
secure environment for businesses to thrive.
interest in this investment, some two years
ago. “The ground breaking is one of the first
farm Sargberg, near Otavi, in the Otavi steps towards the completion of the factory in 7
Constituency of the Otjozondjupa region The fact that Namibia managed to attract an December 2010.
early this year. investment of N$2.5 billion for the project, is
an indication that the country has potential for The Ohorongo Cement Factory will become a
The ceremony was attended by President further investment. The President said that the strong contributor to Namibia’s GDP by creating
Hifikepunye Pohamba, Prime Minister Nahas attraction and retention of investment should 300 jobs and many business opportunities.
Angula, H.E. Egon Kochanke, Ambassador be the goal in all relevant government Agencies
of the Federal Republic of Germany and the and Ministries.
management and staff of the Ohorongo Cement
Factory. It is envisaged that the factory will employ Ohongoro brings
more than 300 people – a move which will
President Pohamba viewed the ground breaking
ceremony of Ohorongo Cement Factory as a
have a positive impact in the reduction of
unemployment in Otavi and the surrounding
300 jobs
vital step in the country’s efforts to boost the areas.
cement production industry in the country.
and
The locally produced cement will help boost On his part, the Germany Ambassador to
the building of physical infrastructure, houses Namibia, Ambassador Kochanke, pointed 200 houses
Continues on page 8
Ohorongo Cement Factory opens Continues from page 7
There are also, prospects of recruiting another for this investment at Otavi, said Ambassador and to South Africa, Botswana and Zambia
600 workers in the future. Kochanke, apart from the abundance of raw through the Trans-Caprivi Highway.
material, is the availability of infrastructure.
The factory will be the first cement plant in The Schwenk Group’s Germany motto is
Namibia and will minimise cement imports The factory is strategically located alongside “Baustoffe furs Leben”, meaning “Building
and mitigate the shortage and the ever the national B1 road and the railway line Materials for life”. In co-operation with the
increasing cement prices. connecting Windhoek and the northern towns Otavi Town Council, Ohorongo Cement Factory
through to the neighbouring Angola, Zambia has initiated the Otavi Community Trust
Schwenk Group is determined to make the and Botswana. to which it has already contributed N$100
factory a lasting success story for the Otavi 000 as a starting capital for infrastructure
community and the Namibia economy as a It provides easy access to neighbouring markets investment. Together with the National
whole. The investment is said to be a typical in Angola, through the Trans-Kunene Highway Housing Enterprise, Ohorongo cement plans
win-win situation. One of the decisive reasons the construction of 200 new houses in Otavi.
Namibia Institute of Public Administration

(NIPAM) close to reality
A s the government’s response servants. NIPAM will maintain close links with for the Elected Councillors of the Regional
to capacity building needs of the government and the public sector. and Local Government Institutions. Training
the country’s public servants, the needs analysis for these programmes have
establishment of the Namibia Institute of So far, services of an expert, through the Indian been completed. In addition, two pilot content
Public Administration and Management Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) familiarisation programmes for the Middle
(NIPAM) is at an advanced stage. programme of the government of India, have Management were conducted in July 2007 and
been engaged. Dr. Brij Mohan Harbola has, since February 2008. A visual design identity and
NIPAM is a key initiative of the Namibian his arrival in the country in March 2007, been logo of NIPAM has been finalised.
government to ensure a multi-faceted coordinating the NIPAM establishment project.
organisation performing training, operational A NIPAM Unit is in place in the interim period to Besides India, the Namibian government
research, co-ordination and capacity building develop training products and services. has signed cooperation agreements with
evaluation roles in the dynamic public service the governments of France and Finland in
environment. A consultative process to formulate and enlist this development initiative. France has been
expectations of NIPAM’s clients has been supporting Namibia for the past three years with
The Institute is a dedicated training service adopted. NIPAM Unit is developing three core assistance directed at improving performance
provider for the public sector in Namibia and will training programmes for the Senior Management in respect of public administration and human
function as a statutory body in an autonomous Development Programme (SMDP), Professional rights. The Finish government is providing
and professional way, demonstrating a working Modules for Managers of the Regional Councils technical and financial support for the Middle
8 culture that will inspire and motivate public and Local Authorities and Induction Programme Management Development Programme.
Improving efficiency in the Namibian Public

Service
T o improve service delivery, the
Public Service of Namibia has
embarked upon the Business Process Re-
order to reach Vision 2030. The Office of the
Prime Minister is driving the business process
re-engineering in the Public Service of Namibia
Office of the Prime Minister, procurement of
goods and services through the Tender Board
in the Ministry of Finance and the registration
engineering (BPR) exercise to streamline with the assistance from the United Nations of companies in the Ministry of Trade and
processes and procedures in government Development Programme (UNDP). Industry.
institutions.
The service areas that have been re-looked Recruitment Process
This is done with a view to have a public service to improve efficiency in service delivery are On the recruitment process, the challenges
that is efficient, effective and accountable in recruitment and misconduct processes in the identified include: the filling of vacancies,
Continues on page 9
Improving efficiency in the Namibian Public Service Continues from page 8
Thus in practice, it compliance with tender requirements;

means two months incomplete tender documentation; lack
before the person of skills, capital, knowledge of Small and
can assume duty; Medium Enterprises; lack of communication/
and consultation; lack of computerised data; lack
• Speeding up the of technical expertise; poor planning of/
streamlining process budgetary provision for projects; delay in
on the issuing of submission of relevant documentation; and
work permits to low exemption threshold. To address the
foreign nationals above mentioned issues in the Tender Board,
by the Ministry of the Ministry of Finance is undertaking the
Home Affairs and following:
Immigration.
• Carrying out capacity building programmes
Misconduct at the Tender Board Secretariat and the
Process line ministries;
With regard to the • Designing and implementing structured
misconduct process, training interventions for Small and
the bottlenecks Medium Enterprises, women and the
identified are: youth;
amending the • Undertaking robust information and
Public Service education programmes;
Act to conform to • Aligning the implementation of projects
labour legislation, with the available budget;
as well as the issue • Computerising the Tender Board
of supervisors and Secretariat; and
The Rt. Hon. Nahas Angula Prime Minister, is at the helm of managers not taking • Increasing the threshold for Tender Board
public service reform the responsibility for exemptions.
the initiation of the
which is seen as the responsibility of Human
misconduct process. Registration of Companies
Resources Units in O/M/As, hence the
The Office of the Prime Minister is busy with On the registration of companies, obstacles
process takes exceptionally long; and the
the implementation of the following measures encountered are the issue of capturing the
issuing of work permits to foreign nationals
on the misconduct process: 170 000 files on Close Corporations alone on
is also delaying the recruitment process. In
the system; the implementation of the new
this regard, the Office of the Prime Minister is
• Amending Sections 26(3) and 26 (6) of the Companies Act; and the Treasury approval,
busy addressing these challenges by way of:
Public Service Act, 1995 (Act 13 of 1995) to which is required for the implementation of
ensure that: Financial Module that is not forthcoming.
• Making supervisors and managers
o The preliminary investigation of a Therefore, the Ministry of Trade and Industry
responsible for recruitment with the
chargeable offence and the formulation is busy ensuring that:
Human Resource Units in O/M/As;
of charges to enable the Permanent
• Ensuring that the requests for the filling
9
Secretary to charge a staff member • All the data on the registration of
of the vacancies, the advertising thereof
would be done within seven days; companies is captured on the system;
as well as the setting of the interview
o The disciplinary hearings, decisions and • Administrative Regulations are gazetted
panels and questions would take place
finalisation of the minutes would take to allow the implementation of the new
simultaneously at the beginning of the
place within 21 days of establishing the Companies Act;
recruitment process;
Disciplinary Committee; and • All the outstanding modules on the
• Reducing the running period of
o The Permanent Secretaries are allowed to Integrated Companies Registration
advertisements in the media from 30 days
use discretionary powers in exceptional System (ICRS) are implemented;
to 14 days. In addition, the advertisements
cases where there are delays. • A Web-linked data base is created to
would also stipulate that only short-listed
enable clients to perform name search
candidates would be contacted to save
Both the recruitment and misconduct processes and register name reservations online;
time and resources with regard to endless
require changing the roles of the various players and
correspondence;
to ensure fairness and procedural correctness. • Training programmes for staff members
• Amending the present/current policy
are initiated on mindset and for improving
of the Public Service Commission with
Public Procurement Process the skills of staff members on handling
regard to the date of assumption of duty
The problems experienced in public procurement the clients and increase their knowledge
that provides for the first day of the month
(Tender Board) are amongst others: lack of on the subject matter.
in which the recommendation was made.
knowledge about tender procedures; non-
Parliament in Pictures
History is written
President Pohamba waving at the audience. With him on the left are Hon. Dr. Theo-
Ben Gurirab, Speaker of the National Assembly and Judge Peter Shivute, Chief
Justice of the Supreme Court and Hon. Asser Kapere, Chairperson of the National
Council and Mr. Mbapeua Muvangua, Chief of Protocol
The 9th Session of the 4th Parliament begins. President Hifikepunye Pohamba
stands at attention on the red carpet
10
President Pohamba greeting VIPs. With him is Hon. Asser Kapere
President Pohamba seated in Parliament with Founding President and Father of the
Namibian nation, Dr. Sam Nujoma and First Lady Penehupifo Pohamba
President Pohamba
Parliament in Pictures
Hon. Margaret Mensah-Williams, Vice-Chairperson

Walking side by side from left: Chairman of the National Council Hon. Asser Kapere, President Pohamba, of the National Council, leaving Parliament after the
Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Theo-Ben Gurirab opening ceremony of the 4th Parliament
The flag of Namibia raised high as a symbol of pride Representatives of the Judiciary at the opening ceremony of the 4th Parliament 11
The Judiciary heads: Chief Justice, Peter Shivute and

President Pohamba during the inspection of the Liberation hero and former Cabinet Minister, Toivo
Judge President Petrus Damaseb
Guard of Honour at the opening of the 9th session of Andimba Ya Toivo in the middle and Mr. Frans
the 4th Parliament on 17 February 2009 Ndoroma, Managing Director of Telecom Namibia
(right) and a fellow Namibian (left)
Namibia chaired UN high-level meeting on

drugs and crime
T he Namibian Ambassador to Austria
and Permanent Representative to
the United Nations Office in Vienna, Mrs.
adopted at a High-Level Meeting that
took place in Vienna from 11-12 March
2009, chaired by Hon. Dr. Libertina
Selma Ashipala-Musavyi was elected Amathila, Deputy Prime Minister of
Chairperson of the United Nations Namibia.
Commission on Drugs and Crime (CND)
since 2008, a rotating post of the UN. Dr. Amathila has vast experience with
the World Health Organisation and is
During her tenure, she was tasked to chair well known in these circles. The High-
the Preparatory committee reviewing the Level Meeting was attended by Her
implementation of the Political Declaration Majesty Queen Sylvia of Sweden, Heads
and Action Plan to address the World Drug of State and Government, Ministers
Problem adopted by the United Nations General and Senior Officials of Government
Assembly in 1998. She also led negotiations to and Heads of International and Non-
formulate a new political declaration, entailing Governmental Organisations.
actions to be carried out by members of the UN
during the period up to 2019. Dr. Amathila led the Namibian
delegation and was joined by Hon.
These negotiations were successful and Dr. Nicky Iyambo, Minister of Safety
produced a highly acclaimed Political Declaration and Security and Senior Government Hon. Dr. Libertina Amathila, Deputy Prime Minister, chaired
officials. the UN-high level meeting
War veterans registration at advance stage

By: Ottilie Shingenge
after the mass registration, which ended in is the last one is made up of those who joined
October 2008. the liberation from 1986 to 1989.
According to the Veterans Act, one of the According to Amagulu, out of the 21,000
primary function of the Veterans Board is application forms received by the Board, 2539
to consider applications for registration of veterans’ started their liberation activities from
prospective veterans or dependants of living 1959 to 1975 were approved while some were
and deceased veterans as prescribed under referred back for further information. The
section 22 (1) (c) of the Act. responses of those who have been approved,
he said, will be communicated to the applicants
12
The Veterans Board held an extra-ordinary through the offices of the Regional Councils.
meeting in Swakopmund earlier this year, with
the aim to consider veterans’ application forms For this reason, the Veterans Board is calling
Mr. M. N. Amagulu, Permanent Secretary of the Minis- for prospective veterans and dependants of on all the applicants who will be called to
try of Veterans’ Affairs living and deceased veterans who have applied their constituency offices to collect their
for veteran status to be recorded as required responses and urgently attend to any additional
“ The process of registering the war

veterans across the country is
progressing well.” This was said at the
by the Act. requirements. The Board is further calling for
all applicants to be patient as the Board is in
Amagulu stated that to be systematic in the process of making sure that it has all the
media briefing by the Veterans Board on approving application forms, the Board decided forms processed in the shortest possible time
progress made in processing veterans’ to group applicants as per the year they started so that those approved can start receiving their
application forms. their participation in the liberation struggle. entitlements.
For instance, the first group comprises those
Speaking at the media briefing was the veterans who joined the liberation struggle The Veterans Board is also appealing to the
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Veterans’ between 1959 to 1975; the second group veterans who have not yet registered to
Affairs, Ndeutapo Amagulu who explained that includes those who joined the liberation approach their regional councilors and give
the aim of the media briefing was to inform the struggle between 1976 to 1979; the third group their names which will be communicated to
war veterans and the public on the progress is composed of those who joined the struggle the Ministry of Veterans’ Affairs for all possible
made in processing their application forms from 1980 to 1985; and the fourth group which arrangements to register them.
which were submitted to the Veterans Board
Namibia’s first Atomic Energy Board

inaugurated
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
T he first Namibian Atomic Energy

Board was inaugurated with the aim
to advise the government on all matters
6. Mr. Theo Nghitila,
nominated by
the Minister of
pertaining to nuclear or atomic energy. Environment and
Not withstanding the risks involved in Tourism
nuclear energy, the government has
entrusted the Ministry of Health and The Minister congratulated
Social Services (MoHSS) to implement the members and reminded
Atomic Energy and Radiation Protection them that they are
Act, Act No. 5 of 2005 for positive taking up a responsible
development. job and therefore, they
should be ready to put
The Ministry is aware of the risks involved in the in place mechanisms to
use and application of nuclear technology but create public awareness
choose to weigh benefits against risks through on the extent of nuclear Hon. Dr. Richard Kamwi inaugurated Namibia’s first Atomic Energy Board
radiation exposure, which can be prevented or or radiation related
minimised. As a result, Hon. Dr. Richard Kamwi, applications, the risk of does not cause undue risk to employees,
Minister of MoHSS, warned those involved in nuclear applications and its impact on people’s patients, the public and the environment.
the use and applications or activities of nuclear health, and the approaches on the protection
technology that may give rise to radiation of the country and the environment from the “There must be a perfect balance that the
exposure to workers, patients, public and the harmful effects of radiation. benefit of nuclear technology would be
environment to be responsible. exploited, whilst ensuring that it is under a
The Board is also to ensure cooperation with controlled and monitored framework,” the
“You have a responsibility to ensure that your other states and international organisations
activities are conducted in a responsible and and how Namibia will fulfill its obligations under
safe manner. I urge you to work together with specific cooperative agreements.
the Board and the authority, to ensure that all “We expect that the
stakeholders are fully aware of the risks involved Dr. Kamwi directed the Board to consult broadly
and the means for mitigating or minimising the with all stakeholders to formulate a national policy will clearly define
harmful consequences of radiation without policy on nuclear energy. “We expect that the
compromising the many potential benefits,” he policy will clearly define Namibia’s aspiration Namibia’s aspiration
advised. with respect to nuclear energy and how it
The Minister was speaking at the inauguration

can contribute to the developmental needs of
Namibia. We would expect to be informed and
with respect to nuclear
of the Atomic Energy Board which took place
recently in Windhoek. At the inauguration
guided on how we can use nuclear technology
in various fields,” he reiterated.
energy and how it
ceremony the Minister announced the appointed
members of the Board as stipulated in the Act. The policy is expected to state clearly the can contribute to the 13
role of nuclear technology in the public health
The establishment of the Board took a sector, such as cancer management, HIV/ developmental needs
protracted consultation between MoHSS and AIDS, Malaria, TB, nutrition programmes, in the
stakeholders. agriculture sector, addressing animal health, of Namibia. We would
improving crop varieties and understanding of
The Board comprises the following members: the country’s water resources. Research and expect to be informed
1. Dr. Wotan Swiegers - Chairperson of the consultations will also help to define the role of
Board
2. Ambassador Martin Andjaba, nominated by
nuclear technology in the energy sector such as
nuclear energy for production of electricity and
and guided on how
the Minister of Foreign Affairs
3. Dr. Chocky Shitaleni Herman, nominated by
the production of freshwater from seawater
using nuclear energy.
we can use nuclear
the Minister of Health and Social Services
4. Ms. Helen Itamba, nominated by the In line with the Act, the Board is mandated to technology in various
Minister of Mines and Energy formulate a policy and regulatory framework to
5. Mr. Iileni Shikwambi, nominated by the ensure that the use of nuclear related technology fields,” said Dr. Kamwi
Minister of Labour and Social Welfare
Continues from page 14

Namibia’s first Atomic Energy Board inaugurated Continues from page 13
Minister emphasised. He told the Board that in Namibia is used in a responsible and safe
the Ministry has made resources available to In line with the Act, the manner and that people’s health are not at
carry-out activities as mandated by the Act. risk,” said Dr. Kamwi.
“I urge you to do your work without fear or Board is mandated to
pressure from any quarter. Remain faithful to The Atomic Energy and Radiation Protection
duty within the jurisdiction of your mandate,” formulate a policy and Act seeks to minimise the exposure of
Dr. Kamwi urged members of the Board. persons and the environment in Namibia to
The Minister directed the Permanent Secretary

regulatory framework the effects of harmful radiation, to ensure
that adequate control is exercised over the
to support the Board’s mandate, and avail possession, production, processing, sale,
resources as required by the Act to ensure that
to ensure that the export and import of radiation sources and
the Board fulfills its mandate unhindered. He nuclear material.
urged the office of the Permanent Secretary to use of nuclear related
expedite the establishment of the Secretariat The act also creates the necessary mechanisms
of the Board and the Regulatory Authority, technology does not to facilitate the compliance with the obligations
which are both critical to the mandate of the of Namibia under international agreements
Board. cause undue risk to relating to nuclear energy, weapons and
protection against the harmful effects of
Dr. Kamwi informed members of the public employees, patients, radiation. The Act prohibits any person to be
that the government will do its best to ensure appointed as a member if he/she has, during
that the nation will benefit from the advanced
use and applications of nuclear technology.
the public and the the period of ten years immediately preceding
the date of commencement of the Act, or at
He said: “The Board should dispel any fears any time after that date, been convicted,
associated with nuclear technology and re-
environment. whether in Namibia or outside of Namibia, of
enforce confidence that nuclear technology an offence and sentenced to imprisonment
without the option of a fine.
Functions of the Atomic Energy Board

T he government has inaugurated the
country’s first Atomic Energy Board
with detailed functions as spelled out in
• advise organs of the State on how to initiate,
or provide support on intervention during
emergencies, as may be appropriate;
• advise the Minister on the appropriate
mechanisms to inform the public about the
regulatory process and the radiation safety
the Atomic Energy Radiation Protection aspects and related practices;
Act of 2005, based on Article 56 of the • make recommendations to relevant
Constitution. persons and the government related to • recommend to relevant authorities
the promotion of peaceful uses of atomic measures required to ensure proper
14 • The Board is mandated to advise the energy and related research on radiation and full collection and dissemination of
appointing Minister on matters relating safety issues; information to the public generally and
to radiation protection, radiation sources, license holders in particular, regarding
radioactive materials, radioactive waste and • maintain contact for information exchange measures necessary or desirable to be
prescribed non-ionising radiation sources; and co-operation with other bodies in taken to minimise exposure to radiation
Namibia, regulatory bodies of other from radiation sources or radioactive waste
• advise government Ministers, departments countries and relevant international and prescribed limits;
and agencies, as well as the regional and organisations in particular, with regard
local authorities on matters within the to treaties and conventions entered into • report to the Minister annually on the event
scope of the functions of the Board; between the government and those of the implementation of the Act, regarding
countries and organisations, particularly on the safety of radiation sources, radioactive
• advise license holders on the appropriateness radiation or nuclear safety; materials, radioactive waste and prescribed
of a person who is appointed as a radiation non-ionising radiation sources; and
safety officer under section 30(1) of the • advise the Minister on how the obligations
Act; of the Safeguards Agreement and the • perform any other function that is incidental
• recommend to organs of the State how Additional Protocol to the Safeguards or consequential to its functions under the
to co-ordinate emergency response and Agreement may be implemented; Act, or as may be conferred on it by any
the assistance required in the case of a other law or by the Minister.
radiation related emergency;
Erongo held Maternal and Child Health

Conference
By: Ottilie Shingenge
T eenage pregnancies, maternal and

child related deaths are on the
increase in Namibia. The current situation
progress in ensuring that mothers and children
have access to health services,” said Nuuyoma.
of the deaths of mothers and children in Nuuyoma remarked, “it is always a pleasant sight
Namibia requires urgent attention. As a to see a smiling mother holdings a health baby
result, a conference on Maternal and Child in her arms, rather than to see her mourning for
Health took place in Swakopmund with her dead or dying baby. It is equally precious
the aim to deliberate, share and provide and valuable to see a lively child running and
information on the status of maternal playing than to see it in pain”.
health, especially with regard to maternal
births, newborn and child health in the According to Ministry of Health and Social
Erongo region. It also sought inputs from Services (MoHSS) heath national report of 2009,
the stakeholders on how to put the issue 60% infant and child deaths were recorded
on top of the regional agenda. The meeting between April 2007 and March 2008 and 85%
further created a forum for continued deaths occurred among young people under
dialogue on maternal and related issues 25 years. The major causes of such deaths,
in the country and in the Erongo region according to the report, were premature
in particular as part of the national drive births, low weight at birth, infections and other
towards attaining a National Maternal respiratory diseases. To be a father is to care for your children
and Child Health Strategy.
factors to maternal and child deaths in the
The meeting brought together various

Hon. Nuuyoma noted region.
stakeholders in the region. In a speech read

on his behalf by Karibibi Constituency Councilor, the importance to raise The report also stated that the current
situation of maternal and child death in Africa,
Hon. Usell Xoagub, Erongo Governor, Hon.
Samuel Nuuyoma, said that statistics taken over awareness among particularly sub-Sahara Africa, is a crisis. The
causes of direct maternal deaths in Namibia in
the past few years on the worsening situation
2006 were complications of abortion with 8.3%,
of health status of women and children are an different stakeholders hemorrhage (ante and post-partum) with 25%
eyesore for the government.
and obstructed and prolonged labour. Eight-
and the entire Namibian three percent suffered from post-partum sepsis
According to the National Demographic
and 33.3% died from severe pre-eclampsia.
Health Survey of 2008, the country’s maternal
society in the protection
mortality rate alarmingly increased to 217 per
Participants observed that the common
100,000 live births in the year 2000 and rose
to 449 in 100,000 in the subsequent years.
of maternal and child problems faced by women and children in the
Erongo region are conditions of public hygiene
Pregnant women and children under five years
health to save the practices, food insecurity, domestic violence,
are the most vulnerable in society, a situation
that the Governor explained as something to
lack of health education, poverty, and risky 15
worry about, hence the need to work hard at nation and help Namibia behaviour such as smoking, alcohol abuse and
unsafe sex.
reducing the figures.
meets its vision 2030 The Ministry of Health and Social Services
Hon. Nuuyoma noted the importance to raise
came up with innovative plans and actions.
awareness among different stakeholders and and the Millennium Line ministries and other relevant stakeholders
the entire Namibian society in the protection of
were invited to the conference to share ideas
maternal and child health to save the nation
Development Goals and experiences to help health authorities plan
and help Namibia meets its vision 2030 and the
for the next National Conference. MOHSS aims
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
(MDGs). to provide information on Maternal and Child
Health (MCH) to reduce and prevent morbidity
“Let us watch over standards of parenthood and
and mortality in mothers and children.
child health, especially after the international Diarrheal diseases, HIV/AIDS, malaria,
world recognized that Namibia is a place where pneumonia and premature births are said to be The meeting was attended by various
international celebrities such as Angelina Joli some of the top killer diseases and conditions representatives from all the seven constituencies
could also give birth here. Namibia is making with HIV/AIDS being the main contributing in the Erongo region.
HIV/AIDS survey workshop shares findings

By Kaleni Hiyalwa
N amibia is one of the countries that

is doing well in addressing the
HIV/AIDS epidemic, according to a
them to take responsibility for their health care.
“Clearly, in a safe and supportive environment,
people living with HIV/AIDS will always open
the comprehensive needs of children. “One
important element that is often forgotten in
attempting to provide support to children is
report released by the United Nations up. This kind of support reduces the fear of the provision of space and skills to children to
Secretary General recently. This is due disease and stigma, and even helps some to express themselves. By giving children who are
to the implementation of the National share their experiences of living with HIV/AIDS infected or affected by HIV/AIDS the chance to
Strategic Plan on HIV/AIDS by joint in public, noted Dr. Kamwi. talk about their lives in their own words, we can
efforts in rolling-out ART by government, break the silence that surrounds HIV/AIDS and
the private sector, church and the civil The workshop was told that reducing stigma and the consequences of the epidemic throughout
society. discrimination is an important step in helping Namibia,” the Minister reiterated.
the communities to find ways and means to
But Hon. Dr. Richard Kamwi stated that the HIV help themselves, and for the authorities to The survey discovered that children caring for
infection rate in the country is still on the increase provide more effective services. More research ill parents and guardians are overwhelmed
due to the stigma and discrimination. He sited summaries of the findings and lessons learnt emotionally and physically by all the
the case of orphans who are known as HIV/ need to be shared to encourage the development responsibilities, leaving them with little or
AIDS orphans as a stigma and discrimination of innovative approaches in the HIV/AIDS no time to complete their homework or play
meted out against the innocent children. treatment, care and support. “We have to with friends. “Clearly, if we do not invest in
continuously ask critical questions on how to our youth and ensure their healthy, physical
Dr. Kamwi wondered whether the people infected strengthen support groups at different levels and emotional development, our country will
and affected by HIV/AIDS get sufficient support and how to support people living in the rural suffer the consequences. Society has a moral
and wants to know how service providers can and urban areas whether they are employed or obligation to protect vulnerable children,”
know for certain about this deficiency. He not?” Dr. Kamwi explained. He observed that emphasised Dr. Kamwi.
believes that it is only research that can open HIV/AIDS epidemic strikes hardest on the most
the eyes of the service providers to the enormity vulnerable, especially children. “Children living The Minister noted the challenge before the
of the problem. with and affected by HIV/AIDS need to receive nation as the turn-around the strategy in
care, support and education that helps them to addressing HIV/AIDS prevention, care and
Dr. Kamwi was speaking at the official opening stay healthy, have a happy childhood, and grow treatment. He added that there is a need to
of the HIV/AIDS Treatment Literacy Follow- to their fullest potential,” he added. engage the community, because its members
up Survey Dissemination Workshop held in are living with the effects of HIV/AIDS, saying
Windhoek in March 2009. The Minister was The Minister wanted much more to be done that they have the potential to arrive at
reminded about lack of research by researchers to ensure that these children are safe from solutions. “We know that solutions are most
who heard how well Namibia was doing in abuse of alcohol and at times drugs, adding meaningful when identified and addressed from
the fight against HIV/AIDS, voluntary testing, that well thought-out interventions with lasting within,” he reminded the workshop.
counseling and treatment but were disappointed effects need to be developed to respond to
due to the fact that they could not lay their
hands on scientific information to help them
follow Namibia’s best practice.
The workshop was aimed at assessing the Anti-

16 Retroviral treatment, the roll-out of medicines to
people living with HIV/AIDS and the monitoring
of its effectiveness. It was noted that even
though the treatment is improving the health
status of the clients, the disease will be around
for a long time to come.
The survey, which interviewed people infected

and affected by HIV/AIDS is the first of its kind
in the country through which the respondents
were given a chance to express their views
concerning their status and to tell their own
story. Often, other people tend to speak on
their behalf.
The workshop noted that the research is also

viewed as an empowerment for the people
affected and living with HIV/AID to enable Children are a blessing. When leaders devote time, energy and money to care for children,
the nation will prosper
State Hospitals and MoHSS to be restructured

By Kaleni Hiyalwa
H on. Dr. Richard Kamwi, Minister of

Health and Social Services (MoHSS)
gave directives to the management of
and Social Welfare Facilities or Services, 2000,
published by MoHSS as a practical contradiction.
The Minister has directed the Permanent Secretary
and his Deputy to review and streamline the
existing directorates to accommodate the more
his Ministry to consider restructuring and The two institutions were a design of the responsive structures. Dr. Kamwi is not happy
streamlining the Katutura and Windhoek segregation system which thrived in separate with the way some worrisome trends of lack
Central Hospitals under one umbrella. development concept between whites and of professionalism and discipline among some
blacks. Some people still use the stereotyping Ministerial staff, which if not dealt with, could
The two hospitals are managed independently. description such as the hospital for whites damage the reputation of the Ministry.
Consequently, Katutura hospital is perceived (oshipangelo shiilumbu) and the hospital for
to be a hospital for the less privileged and by black (oshipangelo shovalaule) in Oshiwambo. “It is disheartening to see or hear of professionals
contrast, the Windhoek Central hospital is taking each other to court or attacking each other
perceived to be for the well to do members of The Ministry would not only be faced with the through the media. This sad state of affairs has
the Namibian society. “Clearly, no one would task of changing perceptions but it would also led to serial letters of complaints and calls to the
understand us that in an independent Namibia look into the possibility of giving the streamlined Minister and Deputy Minister to account for things
there is still a public institution associated with hospitals a neutral name that will help people happening outside our sphere of accountability,”
separate administration,” he reiterated. do away with the current derogatory and he observed.
stereotyping names by which they call them.
Dr. Kamwi explained that the rationale behind The Ministry wants improvement of
the merger of the two public hospitals is due MoHSS is also establishing one directorate for communication among the staff in the Ministry.
to the government efforts to do away with the information to include components such as health “Effective communication is vital to our success
current negative perceptions, to promote cost information system, epidemiology, monitoring as a team. Let us keep each other informed
effectiveness and the sharing of resources and evaluation and research that are currently and briefed about significant issues of national
between the two health facilities. He said that separate despite the fact that they support one interest before we hear them from elsewhere,”
the current setup of the two hospitals is a clear priority function, namely, information gathering Dr. Kamwi reiterated.
violation of the Policy on Establishing New Health analysis and distribution.
Outapi labour office opened

By Hileni Shimhulu
T he Governor of the Omusati region,

Hon. Sacky Kayone, welcomed
the opening of the labour office of the
In his speech read by the Minister
of Labour and Social Welfare, Hon.
Immanuel Ngatjizeko, President
Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare in Hifikepunye Pohamba stated
the Omusati region, which is built next that the government has taken
to his office. He believes that the effort cognisance of the development in
will ensure harmony between employees Outapi and its surrounding areas.
and employers and contribute positively
towards the success of the NDP3 and the This is an area where business 17
realisation of Vision 2030 programmes activities are thriving in the
as part of the implementation of the quest to bring the necessary
decentralisation process. services closer to the people.
The government decided to
The mandate of the Ministry of Labour and build a regional labour office at
Social Welfare is to promote stable and peaceful Outapi. The office supports and Hon. Immanuel Ngatjizeko, Minister of Labour and Social Welfare
labour relations to prevent and resolve labour advises employers, trade unions,
of developing their respective enterprises and
disputes, and provide a wide range of services employees, jobseekers, the elderly
developing the nation for the benefit of all citizens.
to the labour market. These functions have as and disabled on matters concerning employment,
Disputes that cannot be resolve at the workplace
their objective the fostering of an environment labour relations and social grants.
have to be attended to by the labour office.
conducive to economic growth and employment
According to the President, one of the greatest
creation. The Labour Act of 2007, and the new The labour inspectors promote awareness and
challenges facing the country is employment
provision for conciliation and arbitration to educate the community about their rights and
creation. The government will introduce
prevent and resolve disputes has introduced obligations under the Labour Act and enforce the
legislation to create a stronger legal framework
new mechanisms to achieve these objectives. provisions of the Act. The Act encourages mutual
and pro-active institutions and tools to support
The Ministry also has the mandate to administer respect between employers and employees
economic growth and the employment sector.
the critical social grants to the elderly and people through social dialogue and both employers
These include the Employment Service Bill, which
living with disabilities. and employees should work towards the goals
Continues on page 18
Outapi labour office opened Continues from page 17
will establish a national electronic employment President requested the Ministry to establish universal computer network to display all
information system to register job seekers, public employment offices in the thirteen regions registered jobseekers.
to list job vacancies, to match jobseekers to serve multi-function labour market centers.
and prospective employers, to identify The Head of State announced that these
skills deficits and to provide information on The process will ensure that job seekers register services will be provided free of charge just like
enterprises training and bursary opportunities. themselves at the office and their details are any other public service to the nation, urging
Employers will be required by law to report marked when employment opportunities are education managers to use this platform to
all employment vacancies to the Ministry. The available. All regions will be linked through a allow learners to access the services.
“Namibians should desist from negative

habits but develop Namibia”
President Pohamba
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
P residentPohambaremindedNamibians,
during the 19th independence
anniversary at Keetmanshoop in the
Karas region that peace, security, stability
and national unity are essential for the
continued development of the country.
He explained that it was not coincidental that

many of the fallen heroes and heroines have
sacrificed their lives for the people to live in peace
and in a secure environment. “I, therefore, call
upon all of us to continue to maintain peace,
security and stability in the country,” he added.
The President called on Namibians to cherish and

continue to promote national reconciliation and
unity and shun the vices of tribalism, regionalism,
nepotism, ethnicity, racial discrimination, sexism President Hifikepunye Pohamba sounding a stern warning to the nation to work hard to develop the country
and corruption. instead of internalising negative habits
“We will continue to attract investors to our and to achieve our full potential,” President
The President also wants all citizens to refrain
18 from alcohol and drug abuse.
country to invest in our economy with a view
to increase employment opportunities for our
Pohamba noted.
people,” he added. The government will also continue to address

The Head of State urged young people who
the socio-economic welfare of senior citizens,
have reached the voting age to register to vote
He said the government will continue to promote workers, youth, peasants, orphans and vulnerable
and elect leaders and political parties of their
effective participation in joint ventures and other children, women, war veterans, people with
choice. “It is through the ballot box that we can
activities in the economy, especially among disabilities and all other citizens.
determine the future destiny of our country,”
the previously disadvantaged Namibians. “We
observed the President.
will emphasise value addition on our natural The government has resolved to ensure that
resources to increase the benefits for our people Namibia is able to feed herself with locally
He emphasised that the 19th Independence Day
and to enable Namibia to participate meaningfully produced food. This commitment has resulted
is particularly important for the born-frees who
in regional and international trade,” said the in the establishment of the ambitious plan, the
he described as fortunate Namibians born in the
President. Green Scheme, that was adopted to transform
post independence dispensation.
the land along the perennial rivers into the food
“Independence Day is an occasion for every baskets of the nation. The scheme is already
President Pohamba reiterated the commitment of
one of us to renew his or her resolve to make a implemented and it is envisaged that the harvest
the government to create opportunities for every
positive contribution to the development of our will benefits the people soon.
one to participate in socio-economic activities.
country. We must work to overcome obstacles
Highlights of 2008 and future plans of the
Ministry of Education
of vocational and skills training, provision of
textbooks, construction of three regional study
resource centres, and support for the setting
up of a loan scheme for tertiary studies.
• A per-capita funding policy for primary and
secondary education was developed to
facilitate equitable distribution of resources
to regions, schools and learners, and was
approved by Cabinet. The formula also
includes private schools that are receiving
a subsidy from the Ministry of Education.
The formula requires that 10 % of the total
school population of a private school be from a
disadvantaged background for them to qualify
for a full subsidy from the Ministry;
• Pre-primary education has been shifted back
to the Ministry of Education from the Ministry
of Gender Equality and Child Welfare;
• The professional development of teachers,
principals and teacher educators continued
throughout the year;
• The number of unqualified and under-
qualified teachers employed in 2008 has
been reduced following a directive from the
Permanent Secretary to all regional offices.
Unqualified and under - qualified teachers
were ONLY employed where it was difficult to
Minister Nangolo Mbumba, Minister of Education obtain applications and interest from qualified
teachers, especially in language subjects;
Education Permanent Secretary Vitalis • The National External School Evaluation
Ankama answers questions on education Despite the shortcomings within the system, throughout the country with the objective
With the development and implementation of the Ministry is confident that through ETSIP, the of evaluating the performances of selected
the Education and Training Sector Improvement education and training sector will continue to play schools according to the National Standards
Programme (ETSIP), the Ministry of Education its pivotal role in the creation of a knowledge- and Performance Indicators continued;
remains consistent in making accessible, based economy, as required in Vision 2030. The • The design, development, launch and
quality education to learners and students at all Ministry’s role is therefore to improve the quality implementation of the National Textbook Policy
levels namely pre-primary, primary, secondary, of education and training system to ensure was necessitated by the need to effectively and
vocational, technical, tertiary education and that it is effective and programmes are run and efficiently plan and manage the provision and
training; broaden the knowledge of educators, implemented efficiently. distribution of textbooks and other learning
teachers and school managers in HIV and AIDS support materials to schools for the benefit of
matters; ensure that all educational institutions It is therefore important that the employees and all learners and teachers;
have access to and are able to efficiently use management of the Ministry continue to work • The number of beneficiaries of the Namibia
information and communication technologies hard to ensure that ETSIP becomes a reality for School Feeding Programme (NSFP) was
(ICT) to meet their educational objectives; provide every Namibian child. increased last year, from just above 80 000
access to information and learning resources, Below are some of the highlights of the past year to over 190 000. The NSFP was established
such as libraries and community learning and
development centres (CLDC’s) to anyone wishing
(2008): to provide additional nutrition to orphans and
vulnerable children in primary schools as well 19
to gain knowledge or further their education; and • The smooth admission of learners at the as to encourage regular school attendance;
invest more in research, science and technology, beginning of 2008 academic school year; • The Education Sector Policy on Orphans and
which are vital for the development of our • The Government’s policy on Grade 10 repeaters Vulnerable Children was launched;
knowledge-based industrialised economy. was amended to make provision for ALL Grade • An External Evaluation of the National Literacy
10 repeaters to be re-admitted into the formal Programme in Namibia (NLPN) was carried
What were some of your highlights/ education system; out in 2008. This is the 3rd evaluation to be
achievements? • During the year, 577 classrooms (including carried out since the NLPN was launched by
A: Great strides have been achieved across the classrooms at new schools), 18 laboratories, the Ministry on 5 September 1992;
sector. However, the low transition rate from 28 administration blocks and 38 teacher • An External Baseline study on the National
upper primary to junior secondary level, resulting houses were built. A total of 902 spaces were Library and Information Service sector was
from high repetition and drop out rates at primary also made available for hostel accommodation carried out, with the aim of revising policy and
and junior secondary levels coupled with poor countrywide. strategy based on the requirement of Vision
system performance in terms of skills formation • The Government of the Republic of Namibia 2030 and NDP 3;
and competency building for vocational and and the USA Millennium Challenge Corporation • The inscription of the Hendrik Witbooi Papers
technical education level causes great depression (MCC) signed a compact worth N$2.3 billion in into the UNESCO Memory of the World list
in the education and training system. Poor skills July 2008 to reduce poverty through economic was celebrated in November 2008. This is
formation in the technical and vocational education growth. About US$144 million or about N$1.1 an honour of international importance for
and training system have affected negatively the billion is earmarked for the education and Namibia;
employment rates of vocational and technical training sector, specifically the expansion and • The National Archives of Namibia has an
education graduates. refurbishment of up to 47 schools, expansion informal agreement with The Namibian to
digitise the pre-independence issues of the
Continues on page 20
Highlights of 2008 and future plans of the Ministry of Education Continues from page 19
newspapers, 1985-1990. Funding for this brought about by ICTs and other related all-embracing policy, catering for all sectors
comes from the Aluka Project. The year developments; of the Namibian society – education,
1985 is already finalised, 1986 is fully • The Workplace Policy was launched and employers, industries, workers, individuals
scanned, 1987 is in progress. The goal is to the Workplace Wellness Programme was and groups.
have all the papers available as searchable implemented; • A national policy on Inclusive Education
facsimile PDF files on the internet, and on • The Namibian Sign Language syllabus was was drafted and is expected to be finalised
the internal archives server; developed and approved by the Examination early this year after regional consultations
Board and the Sign Language was written have taken place. The goal of the policy is
Projects under the Anti-Colonial Resistance as an examination subject for the Grade 10 to educate all learners with varying learning
and Liberation Struggle (AACRLS) project: Junior Secondary Certificate (JSC) national and physical abilities in ordinary schools;
1. Digitisation of records in the National examinations for the first time in 2008; and
Archives on the 1904/1908 war continues • A Namibian Sign Language dictionary was also • The Ministry hopes to acquire its own vehicle
under funding by the AACRLS Project. developed with the assistance of the Namibia fleet for transport purposes and to allow the
2. AACRLS autobiography “Long dusty road National Association for the Deaf (NNAD). Ministry’s officials to carry out their duties,
to freedom” by Lydia Shaketange, about most specifically improving inspection and
going into exile (launched March 2009) The Ministry holds ETSIP Review Meetings every monitoring at school level in the remotest
3. An oral history book “Tears of courage: year to assess the progress made regarding the of areas.
Five mothers” by Ellen Namhila, based on implementation of ETSIP activities. The 2008
interviews with five women related to the ETSIP review meeting which was held from 13- Research, Science and Technology?
1966 launch of the armed struggle and the 15 October found that Namibia’s Education and • The Ministry hosted the Information Society
unrecognised role of “the women behind Training Sector Improvement Programme (ETSIP) and Technology (IST) Africa Conference
the men” (to be launched in August 2009) has made significant progress in implementing which was attended by over 460 delegates
• The National Library is doing a wonderful activities according to its strategic priorities. A from Europe and Africa, with the aim of
job in catering for the information needs of wide range of policy and legislative frameworks increasing visibility of mutual research
the Namibian population. National Library have been adopted, bringing about institutional technology development potentials and
Statistics: (April 2008-Nov 2008) Computer reforms. The Review Meetings are attended by networks relevant to European and African
Usage: 11 354, Attendance: 29 996, our development partners, private/public sector stakeholders;
Reference Queries: 5 870; and other stakeholders in the education and • The Directorate of Research, Science and
• A comprehensive survey in the practice of training sector. Technology was admitted as a full National
Workplace Literacy in Namibia was carried Scientific Member of the International
out with the aim of preparing a Draft Code At the ETSIP Review Meeting of 2008, it was Council for Science (ICSU);
of Best Practice for Literacy Learning at agreed that Namibia had met fifteen of the • A plan of action in Science and Technology
workplaces in Namibia. This important seventeen prior actions set for 2008. The two Cooperation was signed between the
report is being published; prior actions that were not achieved at the time Governments of Namibia and South Africa.
• The Namibia Students Financial Assistance of the Review Meeting included a plan for teacher • A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
Fund (NSFAF) continues to allocate loan education reform and the expansion of vocational was developed between the Ministry of
awards to students to pursue their studies education. Education and the COSDEC Foundation
at tertiary institutions and vocation training for the foundation to manage the facility
centres; What are your future plans? of the Mahangu Project. The project aims
• Parliament passed the Vocational Education A: My management and all my staff members to develop capacity and infrastructure
and Training (VET) Act (Act.1 of 2008). The are committed and will continue to work hard to to enhance value addition to Mahangu
act allows for the establishment of the ensure that we achieve the goals and objectives products;
Namibia Training Authority (NTA), the Board of ETSIP. • The fourth National Science, Technology
of the NTA and the National Training Fund. and Engineering Week (NAMSCI) was held
All of the above materialised in 2008; This year (2009), the Ministry and its partners at the University of Namibia;
• New Competency Based Training and will continue to work hard to ensure that ETSIP • Mathematics and Science computer based
Assessment (CBET) for Vocational Training is fully implemented as planned. A number of learning centres (PLATO) aimed at giving
Centre (VTC) instructors were developed activities expected to be completed this year are school learners an opportunity to learn
to replace the existing instructor training listed below: Mathematics and Natural Sciences at their
20 programme at the Polytechnic of Namibia; own pace continue to achieve remarkable
• A tracer study on the VET system was • Continued improved access into the formal result. There are currently three centres
carried out, which revealed that the system education system for Grade 10 learners who operating in the Karas, Khomas and Caprivi
was not responsive to the demands of the did not achieve the required points to be regions.
industry. promoted to Grade 11;
• A survey on the availability and suitability of • In April 2009 Namibia will decentralise -Future plans for the year (2009)/
tools and equipments was also conducted significant education functions to the Regional • Finalise the registration of the Mahangu
at VTC’s. Councils with implications for capacity Project with the Agronomic Board of
• The Information and Technology Division in development at that level; Namibia;
the Ministry offered International Computer • The Policy on Pregnancy among Learners • Carry out a National Study on Indigenous
Driving License (ICDL) courses to 700 staff in Schools is currently under review and is Knowledge System regarding the use of
members of the Ministry and trainees from expected to be re-launched this year; plant for medicinal use;
the Windhoek Vocational Training Centre. • The National Professional Standards for • New PLATO centres are expected to be
The training at regional offices and other Teachers was finalised and printed and opened in Khorixas in the Kunene region
training institutions will continue this year; is expected to be launched this year. It and at Ongwediva in the Oshana region;
• The deployment of ICTs through the outlines the competencies that are needed in • Establishing Science Demonstration Centres
Ministry’s Tech/na initiative, which started teachers; with the aim of stimulating interest in and
in 2007 continued throughout the year. • A National Policy on Lifelong Learning (LLL), developing a positive attitude towards
The initiative is aimed at producing an which will be a catalyst of all institutions and mathematics and sciences and supporting
ICT literate Namibian nation that is able providers concerned with lifelong learning is educators in a resourceful environment.
to participate in the fast changing world being prepared. The Policy on LLL will be an

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process” says President Pohamba

Veterans Parliament in Outapi labour office

Page 12 Page 10-11 Page 17-18

Government Information Bulletin: Publicising Government

“ECN should ensure credible electoral

P resident Hifikepunye Pohamba

E ducation is a top priority for the

Government continues to implement development Continues from page 3

Omusati Regional Council started

O musati Regional Council held its

The Governor of the Omusati region, Hon.

The region received good rainfall and there is

Omusati Regional Education launches

T he Omusati Regional Education

“Health managers and leaders should not

“ The year 2009 is the most demanding

These were the words of the Minister of Health

6 MoHSS made significant progress in several

of government,” says Dr. Kamwi

Ohorongo Cement Factory opens

A historical ground breaking ceremony

Ohorongo Cement Factory opens Continues from page 7

Namibia Institute of Public Administration

Improving efficiency in the Namibian Public

Improving efficiency in the Namibian Public Service Continues from page 8

Thus in practice, it compliance with tender requirements;

President Pohamba greeting VIPs. With him is Hon. Asser Kapere

Hon. Margaret Mensah-Williams, Vice-Chairperson

The Judiciary heads: Chief Justice, Peter Shivute and

Namibia chaired UN high-level meeting on

War veterans registration at advance stage

“ The process of registering the war

Namibia’s first Atomic Energy Board

T he first Namibian Atomic Energy

The Minister was speaking at the inauguration

Continues from page 14

Namibia’s first Atomic Energy Board inaugurated Continues from page 13

The Minister directed the Permanent Secretary

Functions of the Atomic Energy Board

Erongo held Maternal and Child Health

T eenage pregnancies, maternal and

The meeting brought together various

stakeholders in the region. In a speech read

HIV/AIDS survey workshop shares findings

N amibia is one of the countries that

The workshop was aimed at assessing the Anti-

The survey, which interviewed people infected

The workshop noted that the research is also

State Hospitals and MoHSS to be restructured

H on. Dr. Richard Kamwi, Minister of

Outapi labour office opened

T he Governor of the Omusati region,

Outapi labour office opened Continues from page 17

“Namibians should desist from negative

He explained that it was not coincidental that

The President called on Namibians to cherish and

people,” he added. The government will also continue to address

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