President Nandi-Ndaitwah Appoints Seven Remaining Regional Governors

By Staff Reporter

PRESIDENT Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has officially completed the long -awaited appointment of the remaining seven (7) regional governors during a ceremony held in Windhoek on Tuesday.

This event marked a significant step in her administration’s commitment to strengthening governance, enhancing service delivery, and promoting inclusive development across all 14 regions of the country.

In her statement, President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the importance of the constitutional and legislative framework that empowers her to appoint Regional Governors, by referring to Article 111A (1) of the Namibian Constitution and the Special Advisors and Regional Governors Appointment Amendment Act of 2010 (Act No.15 of 2010).

She stated that Governors serve at the President’s discretion and are key agents in executing the government’s agenda at the grassroots level. She reminded the Namibian nation that Regional Governors are not mere figureheads but active players who must be visible, responsive, and committed to addressing the immediate needs of the people.

The President reiterated her well-known statement that “we are too few to be poor,” highlighting that Namibia’s limited population must work harder and smarter to overcome poverty.

She however called on the new Governors to champion agricultural production to ensure food security, promote value addition in all economic sectors, and focus on job creation to reduce the high levels of unemployment, particularly among the youth.

In line with her earlier declaration that “it shall not be business as usual,” she warned that mediocrity and poor implementation of government programmes would not be tolerated.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah proceeded to announce the names of the newly appointed Regional Governors. They are:

1. Hon. Ismael Pijoo Marikutuka Nganate – Omaheke Region returned his position
2. Hon. Immanuel Shishiweni Shikongo – Omusati Region
3. Hon. Dorothy Mareka Kabula – Zambezi Region
4. Hon. Nathalia |Goagoses – Erongo Region
5. Hon. Hofni Alugodhi Iipinge – Oshana Region
6. Hon. Dawid Casius Gertze – ||Kharas Region
7. Hon. Kadiva Diana Hamutumwa – Ohangwena Region

The Head of State reminded the newly appointed leaders that their roles come with serious responsibilities. They are expected to lead the implementation of the 2024 SWAPO Party Election Manifesto, which has been translated into the 6th National Development Plan (NDP6).

She mentioned that NDP6 would soon be launched, and all Governors are expected to be familiar with the seven priorities of the government and the eight key economic enablers that will drive development during the current term.

Moreover, the President urged the Governors to embrace teamwork and work hand in hand with the Central Government, Regional Councils, Local Authorities, traditional leaders, churches, youth organizations, and businesses to ensure that the developmental needs of their communities are addressed effectively. She emphasized the importance of involving all constituencies, towns, villages, and settlements in planning and decision-making, noting that Local Authorities play a vital role in delivering basic services to both residents and investors.

With the upcoming Regional and Local Authority elections on the horizon, President Nandi-Ndaitwah called on the newly appointed Governors to help guide and support the next generation of councillors. She stressed that newly elected officials must be well-equipped to perform their duties efficiently, thereby improving governance at the regional and local levels.

The President expressed her confidence in the integrity and capabilities of the appointed Governors. She stated that they were selected among many capable Namibians because of their high ethical standards and commitment to serving the people. She reminded them that she would closely monitor their performance and expects them to always be present and responsive to the challenges in their respective regions.

To ensure a smooth start, the President announced that all 14 Regional Governors would participate in an Induction Workshop scheduled for the next two days. All outgoing Governors have also been invited to share their experiences and insights with the incoming leaders.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah ended her address by congratulating the new appointees and urged them to carry out their duties with dedication, unity, and a deep sense of national service all in pursuit of a brighter and more equitable Namibia.

ENDS…