Niël Terblanché
Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila has called on Executive Directors (EDs) in the public service to step up their efforts in implementing government priorities for the upcoming financial year.
During a meeting held in Windhoek on Friday with all EDs, the Prime Minister outlined key focus areas, stressing accountability, timely execution of Cabinet decisions, and effective resource management.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila also reiterated the importance of timely evaluation and implementation of Cabinet decisions, highlighting the need for measurable outcomes and value for money.
“It is important that Cabinet decisions are implemented timely and that their impacts are evaluated to ensure that we bring about the desired impacts,” she said.
With unemployment and other socio-economic challenges still a concern despite some positive economic indicators, the Prime Minister urged public institutions to optimise their performance.
“Strong public institutions that perform optimally are key for economic growth and overcoming social challenges,” she said while adding that Executive Directors have a critical role in ensuring government policies are translated into effective programmes.
A large part of the meeting was dedicated to budget execution and adherence to the Public Procurement Act.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila reminded the EDs of the government’s commitment to equity, value for money, and supporting the local economy.
She urged strict compliance with procurement guidelines and called for timely payment of outstanding invoices to prevent business disruptions.
“Delays in settling invoices threaten the businesses of entities we procure from. It is important to highlight the importance of improved procurement and project management to avoid delays and associated cost escalations,” she said.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila also stressed the importance of people management, encouraging EDs to prioritise staff well-being and foster an organisational culture that inspires ethical conduct and integrity.
“There is a correlation between employee well-being and organisational performance, which invests in well-being initiatives crucial,” she explained.
With regard to recruitment, Kuugongelwa-Amadhila urged EDs to expedite filling critical vacancies to ensure that government departments remain adequately resourced.
“We must be strategic and results-oriented in our recruitment process to ensure that government is always capacitated to carry out its core functions,” she said.
Another key focus of the meeting was aimed at improved collaboration among public institutions and stakeholders to enhance service delivery.
“More can be achieved through efficient problem-solving, enhancing and maintaining stronger collaborations to pull in the same direction,” she said.
She also reiterated the need for continuous staff development and creating a fit-for-purpose organisational culture.
“As we are about to start the new mandate, you are urged to continue serving our country with commitment and dedication,” she said.
