Stefanus Nashama
The government, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security, has constructed new police facilities in Singalamwe, the Zambezi region, at the cost of N$34 million.
This is in addition to the allocation of N$678,307.55 for a vehicle, specifically a Toyota Land Cruiser Single Cab LDV 4×4, assigned to the Singalamwe police post.
Minister Albert Kawana outlined that the Singalamwe police post facility includes a charge office with three offices, a record room, a radio room, a kitchen, a two-bedroom house, a 20-room barracks, a dining hall, a staff entertainment area, and a borehole.
Speaking during the inauguration last week, Kawana emphasized that the facility aims to enhance police service delivery in the area, encompassing crime prevention, investigation of offences, and maintaining law and order in the local community.
Kawana addressed police officers, making it clear that he does not want to hear reports of inadequate transportation when crimes are reported.
“With this brand new vehicle, I don’t want to hear that when the community reports crimes, they are told that there is no transport,” he stressed.
Additionally, the minister called upon the Police Chief, Inspector-General Joseph Shikongo, to ensure that the vehicle is not misused. He urged the Zambezi community to report any abuse since the government provides the vehicle to serve them.
“It is now your turn to work in harmony with the police to fight crime. The ball is in your court,” he said.
Kawana also emphasized that all Namibian citizens should actively participate in special policing programs aimed at maintaining peace and stability in their respective communities.
He encouraged both officers and community members to preserve government facilities for future generations.
Recognizing the government’s efforts to bring policing services closer to the people, Kawana used the opportunity to propose that by 2030, Namibia should have standardized and adequate facilities and infrastructure benefiting both the Namibian Police Force and the nation at large.
“The construction of the Singalamwe facility is an indication that the government, through the ministry, is improving the livelihood of force members, despite economic challenges,” he stated.
Zambezi Region is known for being particularly susceptible to stock theft, which Kawana asserted would not be tolerated from now on.
Earlier this year, Police Chief Shikongo informed the Windhoek Observer that the Namibian Police is building new police stations and facilities in most regions across the country.
