Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Patrick Liebenberg’s short-lived term as acting chief executive officer of the Meat Corporation of Namibia (Meatco) has come to an abrupt end, just weeks before his six-month tenure was set to expire.
The Meatco suspended Liebenberg with effect from 14 July, pending an independent investigation.
This was detailed in an internal memo issued to staff by Meatco board deputy chairperson Stefanie de Klerk.
Liebenberg, who also served as executive for livestock procurement and production, was appointed acting CEO in February after the board opted not to renew the contract of former CEO Mwilima Mushokabanji.
“The Meatco board of directors hereby informs all employees of the corporation that it has resolved to place the acting CEO/executive: livestock procurement & production, Mr Patrick Liebenberg, on suspension with effect from 14 July 2025, pending an investigation, during which process the corporation will accord whistle-blowers the necessary protection,” the memo read.
The board appointed Kingsley Kwenani as interim acting CEO starting 15 July until 31 August 2025, or until the ministry of finance finalises the appointment of an external acting CEO.
“The foregoing interim arrangement is necessitated by the need for an independent investigation to be undertaken while safeguarding business continuity at the corporation,” stated the memo.
De Klerk urged staff to fully cooperate with investigators, maintain confidentiality, and support the interim leadership.
Last week, Liebenberg confirmed to Windhoek Observer that his term would end in July and that he had not sought an extension.
At the time, De Klerk said the recruitment of a permanent CEO was ongoing and remained the board’s responsibility.
The suspension follows recent turbulence at the corporation, including the reported disappearance of about 400 cattle from the Linden Beef Feedlot.
Liebenberg previously said the matter was criminal in nature and unrelated to Meatco staff.
Governance tensions have also surfaced. Former board chairperson Sakaria Nghikembua resigned in June, claiming he was pressured to implement unlawful directives.
Agriculture minister Ingwe Zaamwani said she tried to convince Nghikembua to stay on until a meeting with relevant ministries could take place, but he declined.
When contacted, Liebenberg acknowledged receipt of queries and indicated that he had referred the matter to the deputy chairperson of the board for a response.
Efforts to reach De Klerk for comment were unsuccessful by the time of publication.
