Niël Terblanché
Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has urged civil servants across the country to take an active role in implementing the eighth administration’s development agenda.
In a letter addressed to public servants this week, Ngurare said their work is central to achieving President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s vision of better service delivery and job creation.
He referred to the “Service Delivery Compass” announced by the President during her inauguration and first State of the Nation Address.
Ngurare said the directive brings new hope to the nation and outlines a clear path to improving living standards and creating jobs, especially for unemployed youth.
“The President is clear on what we need to do. Each of us in Cabinet received Terms of Reference upon which we must deliver,” he said.
Ngurare said that while the Cabinet leads the agenda, civil servants are the real drivers of delivery.
“The kamanakandongo in this interface of service delivery is you, the civil servants in various Offices, Ministries and Agencies of government (OMAs),” he said.
He thanked public servants across sectors, including engineers, nurses, artisans and social workers, for their contributions to national development.
“What you do individually and collectively is the true measure of our performance as the 8th Administration,” he wrote.
Ngurare called for a culture of humility, teamwork, and accountability across the public service.
“Let us be builders, not blockers. Let us be humble, courteous and respectful at all times. Let’s create work environments conducive for all Namibians, young and old,” he said.
He acknowledged rising concern about youth unemployment and called on civil servants to help create opportunities.
“There are many unemployed Namibians, especially young professionals. It is our duty to create opportunities for them and not block their dreams. Competency must be the passport, not anything else. Let no position be bought and or sold,” he said.
Ngurare also encouraged a people-first approach to administration.
“In the instance of human consideration versus technical consideration, may the former prevail over the latter,” he said.
He revealed that President Nandi-Ndaitwah plans to address civil servants directly.
“The President has indicated the desire to address you and speak to you directly,” he said, adding that preparations for such an engagement are underway.
