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.

Government Information Bulletin: Publicising Government

The Government Information Bulletin was
established through Cabinet decision number
13th/04.07.06/002 as an official information
bulletin to publicise the Government’s
programmes, policies and activities for the
benefit of Government institutions and the
Namibian public. All Government institutions
contribute towards the Bulletin. The Government
Information Bulletin is published monthly by the
Ministry of Information and Communication
Technology. To meet the specific information
needs of communities, the public is invited to
send comments and suggestions on Government Private Bag 13344, Windhoek
projects, programmes and policies, which will Telephone 061 - 2839111
Fax 061 - 230170
then be covered in the Bulletin. More Government E-mail wdeetlefs@mib.gov.na.
news and information can be accessed on the Design DV8 Saatchi & Saatchi,
GRN news button on the Government internet Windhoek.
Layout and printing Solitaire Press, Windhoek.
site at www.grnnet.gov.na
The Bulletin is distributed free of charge to rural
communities through the Ministry’s regional
offices. The public and organisations are
welcome to subscribe to the Bulletin, but mailing
costs will be for the account of the subscriber.

“ECN should ensure credible electoral
process,” says President Pohamba
P resident Hifikepunye Pohamba
called on the Electoral Commission
of Namibia to work with all stakeholders
in the preparations for the elections to
facilitate a smooth and credible electoral
process. He also directed a special appeal
to all eligible voters to register and vote
in the upcoming elections.
This is contained in the President’s statement
for the opening of the first 2009 Cabinet, in the
capital early this year.
President Pohamba said that it is important
that the political system, at all levels, continues
to promote the values of peace, tolerance,
stability and social cohesion, saying that all
political parties must avoid attitudes that may
lead to confrontations and violence.
The Head of State reminded Namibians to learn
lasting lessons from the difficult experiences
of other countries where politically motivated
violence has caused untold suffering. “We
cannot afford to repeat such mistake,” he
reiterated.
“We are proud that Namibia has consistently
held peaceful democratic elections since
independence, where voters exercise their
preference freely. This is the source of strength
for our democracy. It is also a measure by
which the international community gauges our
commitment to constitutional and democratic
governance,” he observed. President Pohamba
Government continues to implement
development programmes unabated
E ducation is a top priority for the
government and will continue to
receive the largest share of the national
budget as investment. The government
has also started investing in the Education,
Training and Sector Improvement
Programme (ETSIP) which President
Hifikepunye Pohamba believes is already
producing good results as evident from
the increasing enrolment figures and
Government Information Bulletin March 2009
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
described 2009 as a momentous period in the
development and strengthening of Namibia’s
democracy due to the Presidential and National
Assembly Elections to take place in November.
As a result, he called on all Ministers to co-
ordinate their work methodically to enable the
smooth flow of appropriate information for the
compilation of the Election Manifesto for 2009.
“As leaders, our energies must be focused on
the well-being and the improvement of the
living standards of all our people,” he said,
urging all ministries and agencies to implement
the development policies and programmes to
deliver services to all the people.
“Rural development and assistance to vulnerable
sections of our population must continue to
enjoy government attention. We must also
pursue the achievement of the Millennium
Development Goals, as part of our anti-poverty
strategy,” reiterated President Pohamba.
He noted that the current global economic
crisis calls for innovative approaches to
minimise its impact on the country’s economy,
saying that it demands deeper reflection and
the development of home-grown solutions to
overcome the challenges faced by the people in
the short and long terms.
“One of the options is for our country to
expand and improve agricultural output
for food security and ultimately, food self-
sufficiency. Good progress has been made on
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
equitable distribution of resources to all
regions and schools around the country.
President Pohamba was speaking at the first
Cabinet meeting for 2009. He noted that a
strong and effective education system is crucial
for the development of the country, adding that
there is a need to expand vocational training
programmes to accommodate the youth
who need to acquire skills and competence
some government-funded agricultural projects.
I believe that large tracts of land should be
placed under cultivation to increase yields and
reduce importation of agricultural products,” the
President recommended.
He also believed that the agricultural output
would result in benefits for the people in the form
of affordable food prices, diversity of produce
and better opportunities for subsistence farmers
to sell their surplus at reasonable returns. He
called on the relevant ministries and agencies to
attend to tackle other challenges in this sector,
including the availability of proper storage and
marketing facilities.
“The health of our people remains a priority. As
a result, health services must be accessible and
affordable. Service delivery must be intensified
and expanded, including the provision of anti-
retroviral treatment to those infected with HIV/
AIDS,” President Pohamba added.
The Head of State wants the prevention of
mother to child transmission of the virus
to be stepped-up, saying that increased
coverage and availability of treatment should
be implemented with respect to tuberculosis,
immunisation against childhood illness, malaria
and the recurrent outbreaks of cholera and
polio. “These efforts must be complemented by
training programmes for health professionals
and personnel who are needed to make the
public health system responsive to the needs of
the people,” he added.
3
in different disciplines. This, the President
explained, would enable the youth to benefit
from employment opportunities, and to initiate
and manage income generating ventures.
He urged the relevant institutions to speed up
the establishment of vocational training centres
that the government has planned for Karas,
Kavango and other regions where such training
facilities are absent.
Continues on page 4
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009

Government continues to implement development Continues from page 3

programmes unabated
Veterans’ Affairs to ensure that applications
of eligible veterans are speedily processed
so that those who are eligible can access the
monthly allowance of N$2000.00 from the
government.
democracy, we must also focus on the bread
and butter issues, including infrastructure
development, housing, health, education,
rural development, social welfare and job
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
hand but stagnant water becomes breeding
sites for mosquitoes that cause malaria and
other water borne diseases.
The community needs to be informed and
educated to take precautions to avoid the
risk of contracting malaria. Hon. Kayone
encouraged people to work hard and produce
enough food to become self-sufficient in food
production. That will help in the fight against
food shortages in the region.
He told stakeholders that the region
experienced floods in 2008 and some
people lost their property. The efforts with
stakeholders are enabling the region to
Omusati Regional Education launches
Performance Improvement Strategy
T he Omusati Regional Education
dedicates itself to the Education and
Training Sector Improvement Plan (ETSIP)
dream as well as to the improvement of
the poor education performance in the
region.
A conference was held in the region as a
response to the achievement of ETSIP goals,
which will help address the identified short
comings in education towards the attainment
of the country’s Vision 2030.
Omusati Regional Education with its partners
and stakeholders has a vision to provide high
quality education and technological advanced
opportunities to all learners in Omusati.
Some of the ETSIP goals point to the fact
that communities deserve the best education
and the education managers need to improve
on what they do, teachers and parents need
to support learners to achieve better results
in school. The Omusati Regional Education is
expected to be effective and efficient so that
teaching will be improved in schools.
The regional performance Improvement Strategy
is implemented around four inclusive themes:
Efficiency; Accountability; Transparency and
Standards. The Omusati Education Directorate
counts on the support of all stakeholders
in achieving its mission of providing high
Government Information Bulletin March 2009
Continues from page 4
operate efficiently and effectively to avoid launched the Education Improvement
the loss of lives. Stakeholders were urged to Strategy and hoped that the noble dream to
remain prepared in case of the reoccurrence of bring the region to a fifth place this year will
a similar situation. be realised.
Hon. Kayone warned that the current financial Hon. Kayone noted that the HIV/AIDS
crisis has the potential to ruin and disrupt the pandemic in the region is bothersome. The
peace and stability that we all enjoy today region stands at number two at national level.
in the region and the country. He however The region needs to re-evaluate its efforts in
requested the financial institutions to render the fight against the disease.
financial assistance to those who intend joining
the business sector. “With the increase in suicide cases and high
rate of stock theft, rape, baby dumping and
It is hoped that the region will perform many more social ills, leaders should try to
better in future due to the commitment to find the root causes of the problems,” said
the improvement of education. Hon. Kayone Hon. Kayone.
By Hileni Shimhulu
quality education.
The Director
of Education in
Omusati, Anna
Nghipondoka
emphasised
that human and
material resources
have to be used
efficiently and fairly
to improve the level
of performance
that everyone can
be proud of.
At the same event,
learners felt that 5
education starts Some of the participants in the workshop
at home where
children should actions to create a strategy which respects the
be taught discipline and their physical, solid right of every persons to quality learning,” Hon.
emotional and spiritual needs have to be Kayone emphasised.
supported by all stakeholders in education.
“Teachers and parents should work together The region has the second highest HIV/AIDS
with learners to make the best out of it,” said prevalence rate in the country. “Every one
Nghipondoka. should have a responsibility to assist, in his/
her own way, those infected and affected by
The Omusati Regional Governor, Hon. Sacky the disease. The world economy is collapsing
Kayone, opened the conference. He expressed and soon we might face food shortage and food
his concern on the failure rates in grades 10 crisis. Agriculture should be taken seriously.
and 12 in the region. “The region should strive Education should be the foundation upon which
for quality in education and improve conditions people can build a country,” said Kayone.
of service of teachers. Words should be put into
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009

“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
of government,” says Dr. Kamwi
“I sincerely hope that this experience will
motivate the youth studying mathematics
and science subjects, which will enable
them to pursue careers in public health,” he
emphasised.
The Ministry has achieved the following
mile stones:
• Capacity building especially in the area
of medicine, pharmacy and nursing.
Three doctors completed specialisation
programmes in Anaesthesiology,
Ophthalmology and Neurology;
• The control of Cholera outbreak in
Ohangwena and Kunene regions;
Ohorongo Cement Factory opens
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
by the management and staff of the factory.
A historical ground breaking ceremony
for a cement factory took place at
farm Sargberg, near Otavi, in the Otavi
Constituency of the Otjozondjupa region
early this year.
The ceremony was attended by President
Hifikepunye Pohamba, Prime Minister Nahas
Angula, H.E. Egon Kochanke, Ambassador
of the Federal Republic of Germany and the
management and staff of the Ohorongo Cement
Factory.
President Pohamba viewed the ground breaking
ceremony of Ohorongo Cement Factory as a
vital step in the country’s efforts to boost the
cement production industry in the country.
The locally produced cement will help boost
the building of physical infrastructure, houses
Government Information Bulletin March 2009
• Inauguration of a number of new health
facilities in Oshikoto, Omaheke, Karas,
Kunene, Omusati and Ohangwena regions;
• Purchase of 195 vehicles including outreach
service vehicles and 16 ambulances. In
addition, the Ministry is expecting a total of
77 ambulances to be delivered by the end of
2009;
• The launching of the Demographic Health
Survey Report of 2006;
• The first National HIV/AIDS Voluntary
Counselling and Testing Day; and
• The successful completion of the Health and
Social Services System Review culminating
into the drafting and finalisation of the
By Jennet Kuyonisa
and the development of Namibia’s small
towns and local authorities, proclaimed after
independence, as well as old municipalities,
villages and settlements that are experiencing
infrastructure decay.
The factory will have a SADC regional
impact, as Namibia will export some of its
products to its sister countries in the region.
With regard to the investment climate,
the President indicated that for Namibia to
attract and return foreign direct investment,
of incentives, efficient services, transparent
processes, modern and efficient transport and
communication infrastructures and a safe and
secure environment for businesses to thrive.
The fact that Namibia managed to attract an
investment of N$2.5 billion for the project, is
an indication that the country has potential for
further investment. The President said that the
attraction and retention of investment should
be the goal in all relevant government Agencies
and Ministries.
It is envisaged that the factory will employ
more than 300 people – a move which will
have a positive impact in the reduction of
unemployment in Otavi and the surrounding
areas.
On his part, the Germany Ambassador to
Namibia, Ambassador Kochanke, pointed
Continues from page 6
strategic plan.
• The World Health Organisation earmarking
Namibia as one of the four SADC Member
States for elimination of Malaria;
• Achievement of surveillance standards
for certification of Polio free status by
Namibia and resulting approval by the
Africa Regional Certification Commission;
• Hosting of an African Union meeting
for Ministers responsible for Social
Development and
• The finalisation of the draft Strategic
Plan of the Ministry of Health and Social
Services among others.
out that Namibian and Germany are special
partners, adding that the ties between the two
countries have grown since independence into
a strong and healthy relationship. “Today we
are witnessing a milestone in our economic
partnership as this factory will become
Germany’s largest direct investment in Namibia.
I am very pleased that the Schwenk Group
has decided to invest €242 million (Euro) =
(N$ 3.146 million) in Namibia with the aim to
produce more that 700 000 tons of cement a
year,” he noted.
The Germany Embassy has been supporting
the Schwenk Group since it first showed
interest in this investment, some two years
ago. “The ground breaking is one of the first
steps towards the completion of the factory in 7
December 2010.
The Ohorongo Cement Factory will become a
strong contributor to Namibia’s GDP by creating
300 jobs and many business opportunities.
Ohongoro brings
300 jobs
and
200 houses
Continues on page 8
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009
Ohorongo Cement Factory opens
There are also, prospects of recruiting another
600 workers in the future.
The factory will be the first cement plant in
Namibia and will minimise cement imports
and mitigate the shortage and the ever
increasing cement prices.
Schwenk Group is determined to make the
factory a lasting success story for the Otavi
community and the Namibia economy as a
whole. The investment is said to be a typical
win-win situation. One of the decisive reasons
Namibia Institute of Public Administration
(NIPAM) close to reality
A s the government’s response
to capacity building needs of
the country’s public servants, the
establishment of the Namibia Institute of
Public Administration and Management
(NIPAM) is at an advanced stage.
NIPAM is a key initiative of the Namibian
government to ensure a multi-faceted
organisation performing training, operational
research, co-ordination and capacity building
evaluation roles in the dynamic public service
environment.
The Institute is a dedicated training service
provider for the public sector in Namibia and will
function as a statutory body in an autonomous
and professional way, demonstrating a working
8 culture that will inspire and motivate public
Improving efficiency in the Namibian Public
Service
T o improve service delivery, the
Public Service of Namibia has
embarked upon the Business Process Re-
engineering (BPR) exercise to streamline
processes and procedures in government
institutions.
This is done with a view to have a public service
that is efficient, effective and accountable in
for this investment at Otavi, said Ambassador
Kochanke, apart from the abundance of raw
material, is the availability of infrastructure.
The factory is strategically located alongside
the national B1 road and the railway line
connecting Windhoek and the northern towns
through to the neighbouring Angola, Zambia
and Botswana.
It provides easy access to neighbouring markets
in Angola, through the Trans-Kunene Highway
servants. NIPAM will maintain close links with
the government and the public sector.
So far, services of an expert, through the Indian
Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC)
programme of the government of India, have
been engaged. Dr. Brij Mohan Harbola has, since
his arrival in the country in March 2007, been
coordinating the NIPAM establishment project.
A NIPAM Unit is in place in the interim period to
develop training products and services.
A consultative process to formulate and enlist
expectations of NIPAM’s clients has been
adopted. NIPAM Unit is developing three core
training programmes for the Senior Management
Development Programme (SMDP), Professional
Modules for Managers of the Regional Councils
and Local Authorities and Induction Programme
order to reach Vision 2030. The Office of the
Prime Minister is driving the business process
re-engineering in the Public Service of Namibia
with the assistance from the United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP).
The service areas that have been re-looked
to improve efficiency in service delivery are
recruitment and misconduct processes in the
Continues from page 7
and to South Africa, Botswana and Zambia
through the Trans-Caprivi Highway.
The Schwenk Group’s Germany motto is
“Baustoffe furs Leben”, meaning “Building
Materials for life”. In co-operation with the
Otavi Town Council, Ohorongo Cement Factory
has initiated the Otavi Community Trust
to which it has already contributed N$100
000 as a starting capital for infrastructure
investment. Together with the National
Housing Enterprise, Ohorongo cement plans
the construction of 200 new houses in Otavi.
for the Elected Councillors of the Regional
and Local Government Institutions. Training
needs analysis for these programmes have
been completed. In addition, two pilot content
familiarisation programmes for the Middle
Management were conducted in July 2007 and
February 2008. A visual design identity and
logo of NIPAM has been finalised.
Besides India, the Namibian government
has signed cooperation agreements with
the governments of France and Finland in
this development initiative. France has been
supporting Namibia for the past three years with
assistance directed at improving performance
in respect of public administration and human
rights. The Finish government is providing
technical and financial support for the Middle
Management Development Programme.
Office of the Prime Minister, procurement of
goods and services through the Tender Board
in the Ministry of Finance and the registration
of companies in the Ministry of Trade and
Industry.
Recruitment Process
On the recruitment process, the challenges
identified include: the filling of vacancies,
Continues on page 9
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009
Improving efficiency in the Namibian Public Service
Thus in practice, it
means two months
before the person
can assume duty;
and
• Speeding up the
streamlining process
on the issuing of
work permits to
foreign nationals
by the Ministry of
Home Affairs and
Immigration.
Misconduct
Process
With regard to the
misconduct process,
the bottlenecks
identified are:
amending the
Public Service
Act to conform to
labour legislation,
as well as the issue
of supervisors and
The Rt. Hon. Nahas Angula Prime Minister, is at the helm of managers not taking
public service reform the responsibility for
the initiation of the
which is seen as the responsibility of Human
misconduct process.
Resources Units in O/M/As, hence the
The Office of the Prime Minister is busy with
process takes exceptionally long; and the
the implementation of the following measures
issuing of work permits to foreign nationals
on the misconduct process:
is also delaying the recruitment process. In
this regard, the Office of the Prime Minister is
• Amending Sections 26(3) and 26 (6) of the
busy addressing these challenges by way of:
Public Service Act, 1995 (Act 13 of 1995) to
ensure that:
• Making supervisors and managers
o The preliminary investigation of a
responsible for recruitment with the
chargeable offence and the formulation
Human Resource Units in O/M/As;
of charges to enable the Permanent
• Ensuring that the requests for the filling
Secretary to charge a staff member
of the vacancies, the advertising thereof
would be done within seven days;
as well as the setting of the interview
o The disciplinary hearings, decisions and
panels and questions would take place
finalisation of the minutes would take
simultaneously at the beginning of the
place within 21 days of establishing the
recruitment process;
Disciplinary Committee; and
• Reducing the running period of
o The Permanent Secretaries are allowed to
advertisements in the media from 30 days
use discretionary powers in exceptional
to 14 days. In addition, the advertisements
cases where there are delays.
would also stipulate that only short-listed
candidates would be contacted to save
Both the recruitment and misconduct processes
time and resources with regard to endless
require changing the roles of the various players
correspondence;
to ensure fairness and procedural correctness.
• Amending the present/current policy
of the Public Service Commission with
Public Procurement Process
regard to the date of assumption of duty
The problems experienced in public procurement
that provides for the first day of the month
(Tender Board) are amongst others: lack of
in which the recommendation was made.
knowledge about tender procedures; non-
Continues from page 8
compliance with tender requirements;
incomplete tender documentation; lack
of skills, capital, knowledge of Small and
Medium Enterprises; lack of communication/
consultation; lack of computerised data; lack
of technical expertise; poor planning of/
budgetary provision for projects; delay in
submission of relevant documentation; and
low exemption threshold. To address the
above mentioned issues in the Tender Board,
the Ministry of Finance is undertaking the
following:
• Carrying out capacity building programmes
at the Tender Board Secretariat and the
line ministries;
• Designing and implementing structured
training interventions for Small and
Medium Enterprises, women and the
youth;
• Undertaking robust information and
education programmes;
• Aligning the implementation of projects
with the available budget;
• Computerising the Tender Board
Secretariat; and
• Increasing the threshold for Tender Board
exemptions.
Registration of Companies
On the registration of companies, obstacles
encountered are the issue of capturing the
170 000 files on Close Corporations alone on
the system; the implementation of the new
Companies Act; and the Treasury approval,
which is required for the implementation of
Financial Module that is not forthcoming.
Therefore, the Ministry of Trade and Industry
is busy ensuring that:
9
• All the data on the registration of
companies is captured on the system;
• Administrative Regulations are gazetted
to allow the implementation of the new
Companies Act;
• All the outstanding modules on the
Integrated Companies Registration
System (ICRS) are implemented;
• A Web-linked data base is created to
enable clients to perform name search
and register name reservations online;
and
• Training programmes for staff members
are initiated on mindset and for improving
the skills of staff members on handling
the clients and increase their knowledge
on the subject matter.
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009

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
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009

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
Judge President Petrus Damaseb
Guard of Honour at the opening of the 9th session of
the 4th Parliament on 17 February 2009
Liberation hero and former Cabinet Minister, Toivo
Andimba Ya Toivo in the middle and Mr. Frans
Ndoroma, Managing Director of Telecom Namibia
(right) and a fellow Namibian (left)
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009

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.
Selma Ashipala-Musavyi was elected
Chairperson of the United Nations
Commission on Drugs and Crime (CND)
since 2008, a rotating post of the UN.
During her tenure, she was tasked to chair
the Preparatory committee reviewing the
implementation of the Political Declaration
and Action Plan to address the World Drug
Problem adopted by the United Nations General
Assembly in 1998. She also led negotiations to
formulate a new political declaration, entailing
actions to be carried out by members of the UN
during the period up to 2019.
These negotiations were successful and
produced a highly acclaimed Political Declaration
adopted at a High-Level Meeting that
took place in Vienna from 11-12 March
2009, chaired by Hon. Dr. Libertina
Amathila, Deputy Prime Minister of
Namibia.
Dr. Amathila has vast experience with
the World Health Organisation and is
well known in these circles. The High-
Level Meeting was attended by Her
Majesty Queen Sylvia of Sweden, Heads
of State and Government, Ministers
and Senior Officials of Government
and Heads of International and Non-
Governmental Organisations.
Dr. Amathila led the Namibian
delegation and was joined by Hon.
Dr. Nicky Iyambo, Minister of Safety
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
primary function of the Veterans Board is
to consider applications for registration of
prospective veterans or dependants of living
and deceased veterans as prescribed under
section 22 (1) (c) of the Act.
According to Amagulu, out of the 21,000
application forms received by the Board, 2539
veterans’ started their liberation activities from
1959 to 1975 were approved while some were
referred back for further information. The
responses of those who have been approved,
he said, will be communicated to the applicants

12
The Veterans Board held an extra-ordinary
meeting in Swakopmund earlier this year, with
the aim to consider veterans’ application forms
Mr. M. N. Amagulu, Permanent Secretary of the Minis- for prospective veterans and dependants of
try of Veterans’ Affairs living and deceased veterans who have applied
for veteran status to be recorded as required
through the offices of the Regional Councils.
For this reason, the Veterans Board is calling
on all the applicants who will be called to
their constituency offices to collect their
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
media briefing by the Veterans Board on
progress made in processing veterans’
application forms.
Speaking at the media briefing was the
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Veterans’
Affairs, Ndeutapo Amagulu who explained that
the aim of the media briefing was to inform the
war veterans and the public on the progress
made in processing their application forms
which were submitted to the Veterans Board
by the Act.
Amagulu stated that to be systematic in
approving application forms, the Board decided
to group applicants as per the year they started
their participation in the liberation struggle.
For instance, the first group comprises those
veterans who joined the liberation struggle
between 1959 to 1975; the second group
includes those who joined the liberation
struggle between 1976 to 1979; the third group
is composed of those who joined the struggle
from 1980 to 1985; and the fourth group which
requirements. The Board is further calling for
all applicants to be patient as the Board is in
the process of making sure that it has all the
forms processed in the shortest possible time
so that those approved can start receiving their
entitlements.
The Veterans Board is also appealing to the
veterans who have not yet registered to
approach their regional councilors and give
their names which will be communicated to
the Ministry of Veterans’ Affairs for all possible
arrangements to register them.

Namibia’s first Atomic Energy Board
inaugurated
T he first Namibian Atomic Energy
Board was inaugurated with the aim
to advise the government on all matters
pertaining to nuclear or atomic energy.
Not withstanding the risks involved in
nuclear energy, the government has
entrusted the Ministry of Health and
Social Services (MoHSS) to implement the
Atomic Energy and Radiation Protection
Act, Act No. 5 of 2005 for positive
development.
The Ministry is aware of the risks involved in the
use and application of nuclear technology but
choose to weigh benefits against risks through
radiation exposure, which can be prevented or
minimised. As a result, Hon. Dr. Richard Kamwi,
Minister of MoHSS, warned those involved in
the use and applications or activities of nuclear
technology that may give rise to radiation
exposure to workers, patients, public and the
environment to be responsible.
“You have a responsibility to ensure that your
activities are conducted in a responsible and
safe manner. I urge you to work together with
the Board and the authority, to ensure that all
stakeholders are fully aware of the risks involved
and the means for mitigating or minimising the
harmful consequences of radiation without
compromising the many potential benefits,” he
advised.
The Minister was speaking at the inauguration
of the Atomic Energy Board which took place
recently in Windhoek. At the inauguration
ceremony the Minister announced the appointed
members of the Board as stipulated in the Act.
The establishment of the Board took a
protracted consultation between MoHSS and
stakeholders.
The Board comprises the following members:
1. Dr. Wotan Swiegers - Chairperson of the
Board
2. Ambassador Martin Andjaba, nominated by
the Minister of Foreign Affairs
3. Dr. Chocky Shitaleni Herman, nominated by
the Minister of Health and Social Services
4. Ms. Helen Itamba, nominated by the
Minister of Mines and Energy
5. Mr. Iileni Shikwambi, nominated by the
Minister of Labour and Social Welfare
Government Information Bulletin March 2009
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
6. Mr. Theo Nghitila,
nominated by
the Minister of
Environment and
Tourism
The Minister congratulated
members and reminded
them that they are
taking up a responsible
job and therefore, they
should be ready to put
in place mechanisms to
create public awareness
on the extent of nuclear Hon. Dr. Richard Kamwi inaugurated Namibia’s first Atomic Energy Board
or radiation related
applications, the risk of does not cause undue risk to employees,
nuclear applications and its impact on people’s patients, the public and the environment.
health, and the approaches on the protection
of the country and the environment from the “There must be a perfect balance that the
harmful effects of radiation. benefit of nuclear technology would be
exploited, whilst ensuring that it is under a
The Board is also to ensure cooperation with controlled and monitored framework,” the
other states and international organisations
and how Namibia will fulfill its obligations under
specific cooperative agreements.
“We expect that the
Dr. Kamwi directed the Board to consult broadly
with all stakeholders to formulate a national policy will clearly define
policy on nuclear energy. “We expect that the
policy will clearly define Namibia’s aspiration Namibia’s aspiration
with respect to nuclear energy and how it
can contribute to the developmental needs of
Namibia. We would expect to be informed and
with respect to nuclear
guided on how we can use nuclear technology
in various fields,” he reiterated.
energy and how it
The policy is expected to state clearly the can contribute to the 13
role of nuclear technology in the public health
sector, such as cancer management, HIV/ developmental needs
AIDS, Malaria, TB, nutrition programmes, in the
agriculture sector, addressing animal health, of Namibia. We would
improving crop varieties and understanding of
the country’s water resources. Research and expect to be informed
consultations will also help to define the role of
nuclear technology in the energy sector such as
nuclear energy for production of electricity and
and guided on how
the production of freshwater from seawater
using nuclear energy.
we can use nuclear
In line with the Act, the Board is mandated to technology in various
formulate a policy and regulatory framework to
ensure that the use of nuclear related technology fields,” said Dr. Kamwi
Continues from page 14
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009
Namibia’s first Atomic Energy Board inaugurated
Minister emphasised. He told the Board that
the Ministry has made resources available to
carry-out activities as mandated by the Act.
“I urge you to do your work without fear or
pressure from any quarter. Remain faithful to
duty within the jurisdiction of your mandate,”
Dr. Kamwi urged members of the Board.
The Minister directed the Permanent Secretary
to support the Board’s mandate, and avail
resources as required by the Act to ensure that
the Board fulfills its mandate unhindered. He
urged the office of the Permanent Secretary to
expedite the establishment of the Secretariat
of the Board and the Regulatory Authority,
which are both critical to the mandate of the
Board.
Dr. Kamwi informed members of the public
that the government will do its best to ensure
that the nation will benefit from the advanced
use and applications of nuclear technology.
He said: “The Board should dispel any fears
associated with nuclear technology and re-
enforce confidence that nuclear technology
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
the Atomic Energy Radiation Protection
Act of 2005, based on Article 56 of the
Constitution.
14 • The Board is mandated to advise the
appointing Minister on matters relating
to radiation protection, radiation sources,
radioactive materials, radioactive waste and
prescribed non-ionising radiation sources;
• advise government Ministers, departments
and agencies, as well as the regional and
local authorities on matters within the
scope of the functions of the Board;
• advise license holders on the appropriateness
of a person who is appointed as a radiation
safety officer under section 30(1) of the
Act;
• recommend to organs of the State how
to co-ordinate emergency response and
the assistance required in the case of a
radiation related emergency;
In line with the Act, the
Board is mandated to
formulate a policy and
regulatory framework
to ensure that the
use of nuclear related
technology does not
cause undue risk to
employees, patients,
the public and the
environment.
• advise organs of the State on how to initiate,
or provide support on intervention during
emergencies, as may be appropriate;
• make recommendations to relevant
persons and the government related to
the promotion of peaceful uses of atomic
energy and related research on radiation
safety issues;
• maintain contact for information exchange
and co-operation with other bodies in
Namibia, regulatory bodies of other
countries and relevant international
organisations in particular, with regard
to treaties and conventions entered into
between the government and those
countries and organisations, particularly on
radiation or nuclear safety;
• advise the Minister on how the obligations
of the Safeguards Agreement and the
Additional Protocol to the Safeguards
Agreement may be implemented;
Continues from page 13
in Namibia is used in a responsible and safe
manner and that people’s health are not at
risk,” said Dr. Kamwi.
The Atomic Energy and Radiation Protection
Act seeks to minimise the exposure of
persons and the environment in Namibia to
the effects of harmful radiation, to ensure
that adequate control is exercised over the
possession, production, processing, sale,
export and import of radiation sources and
nuclear material.
The act also creates the necessary mechanisms
to facilitate the compliance with the obligations
of Namibia under international agreements
relating to nuclear energy, weapons and
protection against the harmful effects of
radiation. The Act prohibits any person to be
appointed as a member if he/she has, during
the period of ten years immediately preceding
the date of commencement of the Act, or at
any time after that date, been convicted,
whether in Namibia or outside of Namibia, of
an offence and sentenced to imprisonment
without the option of a fine.
• advise the Minister on the appropriate
mechanisms to inform the public about the
regulatory process and the radiation safety
aspects and related practices;
• recommend to relevant authorities
measures required to ensure proper
and full collection and dissemination of
information to the public generally and
license holders in particular, regarding
measures necessary or desirable to be
taken to minimise exposure to radiation
from radiation sources or radioactive waste
and prescribed limits;
• report to the Minister annually on the event
of the implementation of the Act, regarding
the safety of radiation sources, radioactive
materials, radioactive waste and prescribed
non-ionising radiation sources; and
• perform any other function that is incidental
or consequential to its functions under the
Act, or as may be conferred on it by any
other law or by the Minister.

Erongo held Maternal and Child Health
Conference
T eenage pregnancies, maternal and
child related deaths are on the
increase in Namibia. The current situation
of the deaths of mothers and children in
Namibia requires urgent attention. As a
result, a conference on Maternal and Child
Health took place in Swakopmund with
the aim to deliberate, share and provide
information on the status of maternal
health, especially with regard to maternal
births, newborn and child health in the
Erongo region. It also sought inputs from
the stakeholders on how to put the issue
on top of the regional agenda. The meeting
further created a forum for continued
dialogue on maternal and related issues
in the country and in the Erongo region
in particular as part of the national drive
towards attaining a National Maternal
and Child Health Strategy.
The meeting brought together various
stakeholders in the region. In a speech read
on his behalf by Karibibi Constituency Councilor,
Hon. Usell Xoagub, Erongo Governor, Hon.
Samuel Nuuyoma, said that statistics taken over
the past few years on the worsening situation
of health status of women and children are an
eyesore for the government.
According to the National Demographic
Health Survey of 2008, the country’s maternal
mortality rate alarmingly increased to 217 per
100,000 live births in the year 2000 and rose
to 449 in 100,000 in the subsequent years.
Pregnant women and children under five years
are the most vulnerable in society, a situation
that the Governor explained as something to
worry about, hence the need to work hard at
reducing the figures.
Hon. Nuuyoma noted the importance to raise
awareness among different stakeholders and
the entire Namibian society in the protection of
maternal and child health to save the nation
and help Namibia meets its vision 2030 and the
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
“Let us watch over standards of parenthood and
child health, especially after the international
world recognized that Namibia is a place where
international celebrities such as Angelina Joli
could also give birth here. Namibia is making
Government Information Bulletin March 2009
By: Ottilie Shingenge
progress in ensuring that mothers and children
have access to health services,” said Nuuyoma.
Nuuyoma remarked, “it is always a pleasant sight
to see a smiling mother holdings a health baby
in her arms, rather than to see her mourning for
her dead or dying baby. It is equally precious
and valuable to see a lively child running and
playing than to see it in pain”.
According to Ministry of Health and Social
Services (MoHSS) heath national report of 2009,
60% infant and child deaths were recorded
between April 2007 and March 2008 and 85%
deaths occurred among young people under
25 years. The major causes of such deaths,
according to the report, were premature
births, low weight at birth, infections and other
respiratory diseases.
Hon. Nuuyoma noted
the importance to raise
awareness among
different stakeholders
and the entire Namibian
society in the protection
of maternal and child
health to save the
nation and help Namibia
meets its vision 2030
and the Millennium
Development Goals
(MDGs).
Diarrheal diseases, HIV/AIDS, malaria,
pneumonia and premature births are said to be
some of the top killer diseases and conditions
with HIV/AIDS being the main contributing
To be a father is to care for your children
factors to maternal and child deaths in the
region.
The report also stated that the current
situation of maternal and child death in Africa,
particularly sub-Sahara Africa, is a crisis. The
causes of direct maternal deaths in Namibia in
2006 were complications of abortion with 8.3%,
hemorrhage (ante and post-partum) with 25%
and obstructed and prolonged labour. Eight-
three percent suffered from post-partum sepsis
and 33.3% died from severe pre-eclampsia.
Participants observed that the common
problems faced by women and children in the
Erongo region are conditions of public hygiene
practices, food insecurity, domestic violence,
lack of health education, poverty, and risky 15
behaviour such as smoking, alcohol abuse and
unsafe sex.
The Ministry of Health and Social Services
came up with innovative plans and actions.
Line ministries and other relevant stakeholders
were invited to the conference to share ideas
and experiences to help health authorities plan
for the next National Conference. MOHSS aims
to provide information on Maternal and Child
Health (MCH) to reduce and prevent morbidity
and mortality in mothers and children.
The meeting was attended by various
representatives from all the seven constituencies
in the Erongo region.
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009
HIV/AIDS survey workshop shares findings
N amibia is one of the countries that
is doing well in addressing the
HIV/AIDS epidemic, according to a
report released by the United Nations
Secretary General recently. This is due
to the implementation of the National
Strategic Plan on HIV/AIDS by joint
efforts in rolling-out ART by government,
the private sector, church and the civil
society.
But Hon. Dr. Richard Kamwi stated that the HIV
infection rate in the country is still on the increase
due to the stigma and discrimination. He sited
the case of orphans who are known as HIV/
AIDS orphans as a stigma and discrimination
meted out against the innocent children.
Dr. Kamwi wondered whether the people infected
and affected by HIV/AIDS get sufficient support
and wants to know how service providers can
know for certain about this deficiency. He
believes that it is only research that can open
the eyes of the service providers to the enormity
of the problem.
Dr. Kamwi was speaking at the official opening
of the HIV/AIDS Treatment Literacy Follow-
up Survey Dissemination Workshop held in
Windhoek in March 2009. The Minister was
reminded about lack of research by researchers
who heard how well Namibia was doing in
the fight against HIV/AIDS, voluntary testing,
counseling and treatment but were disappointed
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
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
them to take responsibility for their health care.
“Clearly, in a safe and supportive environment,
people living with HIV/AIDS will always open
up. This kind of support reduces the fear of
disease and stigma, and even helps some to
share their experiences of living with HIV/AIDS
in public, noted Dr. Kamwi.
The workshop was told that reducing stigma and
discrimination is an important step in helping
the communities to find ways and means to
help themselves, and for the authorities to
provide more effective services. More research
summaries of the findings and lessons learnt
need to be shared to encourage the development
of innovative approaches in the HIV/AIDS
treatment, care and support. “We have to
continuously ask critical questions on how to
strengthen support groups at different levels
and how to support people living in the rural
and urban areas whether they are employed or
not?” Dr. Kamwi explained. He observed that
HIV/AIDS epidemic strikes hardest on the most
vulnerable, especially children. “Children living
with and affected by HIV/AIDS need to receive
care, support and education that helps them to
stay healthy, have a happy childhood, and grow
to their fullest potential,” he added.
The Minister wanted much more to be done
to ensure that these children are safe from
abuse of alcohol and at times drugs, adding
that well thought-out interventions with lasting
effects need to be developed to respond to
Children are a blessing. When leaders devote time, energy and money to care for children,
the nation will prosper
the comprehensive needs of children. “One
important element that is often forgotten in
attempting to provide support to children is
the provision of space and skills to children to
express themselves. By giving children who are
infected or affected by HIV/AIDS the chance to
talk about their lives in their own words, we can
break the silence that surrounds HIV/AIDS and
the consequences of the epidemic throughout
Namibia,” the Minister reiterated.
The survey discovered that children caring for
ill parents and guardians are overwhelmed
emotionally and physically by all the
responsibilities, leaving them with little or
no time to complete their homework or play
with friends. “Clearly, if we do not invest in
our youth and ensure their healthy, physical
and emotional development, our country will
suffer the consequences. Society has a moral
obligation to protect vulnerable children,”
emphasised Dr. Kamwi.
The Minister noted the challenge before the
nation as the turn-around the strategy in
addressing HIV/AIDS prevention, care and
treatment. He added that there is a need to
engage the community, because its members
are living with the effects of HIV/AIDS, saying
that they have the potential to arrive at
solutions. “We know that solutions are most
meaningful when identified and addressed from
within,” he reminded the workshop.
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009

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

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
Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare in
the Omusati region, which is built next
to his office. He believes that the effort
will ensure harmony between employees
and employers and contribute positively
towards the success of the NDP3 and the
realisation of Vision 2030 programmes
as part of the implementation of the
decentralisation process.
The mandate of the Ministry of Labour and
Social Welfare is to promote stable and peaceful
labour relations to prevent and resolve labour
disputes, and provide a wide range of services
to the labour market. These functions have as
their objective the fostering of an environment
conducive to economic growth and employment
creation. The Labour Act of 2007, and the new
provision for conciliation and arbitration to
prevent and resolve disputes has introduced
new mechanisms to achieve these objectives.
The Ministry also has the mandate to administer
the critical social grants to the elderly and people
living with disabilities.
In his speech read by the Minister
of Labour and Social Welfare, Hon.
Immanuel Ngatjizeko, President
Hifikepunye Pohamba stated
that the government has taken
cognisance of the development in
Outapi and its surrounding areas.
This is an area where business 17
activities are thriving in the
quest to bring the necessary
services closer to the people.
The government decided to
build a regional labour office at
Outapi. The office supports and Hon. Immanuel Ngatjizeko, Minister of Labour and Social Welfare
advises employers, trade unions,
of developing their respective enterprises and
employees, jobseekers, the elderly
developing the nation for the benefit of all citizens.
and disabled on matters concerning employment,
Disputes that cannot be resolve at the workplace
labour relations and social grants.
have to be attended to by the labour office.
According to the President, one of the greatest
The labour inspectors promote awareness and
challenges facing the country is employment
educate the community about their rights and
creation. The government will introduce
obligations under the Labour Act and enforce the
legislation to create a stronger legal framework
provisions of the Act. The Act encourages mutual
and pro-active institutions and tools to support
respect between employers and employees
economic growth and the employment sector.
through social dialogue and both employers
These include the Employment Service Bill, which
and employees should work towards the goals
Continues on page 18
 Government Information Bulletin March 2009

Outapi labour office opened Continues from page 17

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