Niël Terblanché
National security, institutional reform, and resource optimisation are among the key priorities set out by Frans Kapofi, the Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, when he welcomed the Ministry’s new leadership team on Monday.
During a ceremony held at the ministry’s head office in Windhoek, Charles Mubita was officially introduced as the new deputy minister, alongside Annelly Haiphene, the ministry’s newly appointed executive director.
Kapofi, who was reappointed to the ministerial post with effect from 1 April, used the occasion to outline his strategic direction under the 8th Administration, in line with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s emphasis on integrity, innovation, and moving beyond “business as usual.”
“We must take care of this country, protect it, and serve its people,” Kapofi told the gathering, while reiterating his call for unity, discipline, and service.
He stressed that enhancing national security, improving the operational readiness of the Namibian Defence Force, and completing institutional reforms remain central to his agenda.
Among the specific initiatives mentioned were the continued operationalisation of the ministry’s new headquarters and further development of Namibia’s defence industry.
Kapofi acknowledged that resource optimisation is essential to achieving the ministry’s objectives, despite pressing financial constraints.
Turning to the new appointees, the Minister described Mubita as a seasoned leader with decades of experience in academia, diplomacy, and politics.
He also commended Haiphene for her 30-year career in public service, including recent roles as Executive Director of the National Planning Commission and the former Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources.
Reflecting on the Ministry’s progress since 2021, Kapofi recognised his team’s resilience during national emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic, drought relief operations, and the funerals of President Hage Geingob and Founding President Sam Nujoma.
He paid tribute to outgoing deputy minister Hilma Nicanor and executive director Wilhelmine Iyaloo Shivute.
Nicanor was lauded for her outstanding leadership, while Shivute ensured that the Ministry maintained unqualified audit outcomes during her tenure.
“I would like to thank President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for entrusting me once again with this important role. My commitment to delivering on the Ministry’s goals remains strong,” Kapofi said.
