Niël Terblanché
In a bid to improve the communication and leadership capabilities of its senior officers, the Namibian Police is conducting a comprehensive Public Speaking Training Course in Mariental.
The course, which commenced on Monday, is facilitated by the Namibia Institute of Public Administration and Management (NIPAM) and is aimed at sharpening the communication skills of key leaders within the force, including regional commanders, heads of directorates, heads of divisions, and staff officers.
The Inspector General of the Namibian Police, Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo, stressed the importance of effective communication as a vital tool in law enforcement.
“Public speaking is more than just delivering a message. It is about engaging, informing, and inspiring. As senior officers, our words have the power to shape outcomes, whether we are addressing our colleagues, engaging with the public, or liaising with stakeholders,” he said.
The training is set to run for five days and involves 20 senior officers, among them seven regional commanders and nine heads of directorates.
These officers are being trained to enhance their public speaking abilities, ensuring they can engage, inform, and inspire diverse audiences while upholding the values and mission of the Namibian Police Force.
Shikongo highlighted the vital role communication plays in law enforcement, especially in navigating sensitive issues and explaining complex matters to the public.
“The ability to speak with clarity and confidence not only strengthens leadership within the ranks of police but also raises greater trust between the public and law enforcement officers,” he said.
Shikongo also pointed out the increasing need for senior officers to articulate decisions, explain policies, and engage with the community effectively.
“In today’s world, where information travels faster than ever, it is crucial that we remain at the forefront of communication excellence. The public looks to us for answers, and how we communicate those answers will determine the level of trust they place in us,” he said.
He added that the Public Speaking Training Course is designed to equip participants with advanced communication techniques, including how to manage tone, body language, and audience engagement.
Officers will be taught to convey authority while maintaining empathy, ensuring they can connect with both internal and external audiences effectively.
Shikongo encouraged the participants to fully engage with the training, stressing that strong communication is essential for effective leadership.
“Great leaders are also great communicators. They know how to inspire confidence, offer direction, and maintain the morale of their teams, even in the most challenging situations. As senior officers, you are the face of the Namibian Police Force, and the power of your voice is one of your greatest assets,” he said.
According to Shikongo the training also aims to strengthen communication within the ranks of the force itself, ensuring that messages of instruction, motivation, and guidance are clearly understood by all members.
He urged participating officers to approach the course with dedication and seriousness, reminding them that their words hold immense power in advancing the mission of law enforcement.
