Niël Terblanché
The chairperson of the Public Service Commission (PSC) of Namibia, Salmaan Jacobs presented his annual address on Tuesday where he outlined the institution’s achievements, challenges, and future priorities.
The event stressed the critical role of the public service in driving national development and delivering on government promises.
“The public service sector is a critical player in development, and no country has ever developed without a strong public service,” he said.
He also stressed the need for a professional, efficient, and people-centred public service capable of meeting the needs of Namibians.
Over the past year, the PSC has been strengthened by new appointments, achieving a full complement of Commissioners for the first time in years.
According to Jacobs, this achievement aligns with Article 112(3) of Namibia’s Constitution.
He reiterated the importance of balanced structuring and added that the PSC is committed to addressing inequalities in public service recruitment.
“We aim to instil trust in the recruitment process, ensuring it is transparent, inclusive, and reflective of Namibia’s diversity,” he said.
Jacobs also detailed Namibia’s strides in regional and international collaboration.
This year, the PSC participated in the Sixth Association of African Public Services Commissions conference in Nairobi, Kenya, which focused on technology-driven, citizen-centred governance.
“We are committed to leveraging automation and digital platforms to enhance recruitment and public sector management,” he said.
He added that on the domestic front, the PSC has conducted consultations with key government leaders and regional visits to Kunene, //Kharas, and Omaheke to address pressing issues in public service management.
Jacobs noted that leave management anomalies and procedural errors in misconduct cases were among the challenges identified during these audits.
“We urge all Offices, Ministries, and Agencies to strengthen their policies and practices to ensure efficient service delivery,” he said.
Looking ahead, Jacobs outlined a strategic focus on capacity building, visibility, and improved organisational structures.
He stressed the importance of equipping public servants with the skills needed to address modern challenges and highlighted the PSC’s push for an independent budget to effectively fulfil its mandate.
Jacobs also called for accelerated decentralisation and the finalisation of key legislative reviews, including the Public Service Act and the Public Service Employees Medical Aid Scheme.
“These reforms are essential for ensuring that the public service remains effective, equitable, and aligned with the needs of the people,” he said.
He also celebrated the dedication of public servants and urged them to embrace their roles with professionalism and enthusiasm.
According to Jacobs, the PSC’s vision and efforts are a demonstration of a renewed commitment to creating a public service that drives sustainable development and upholds the principles of good governance.
“Let us work together to build a public service that is not only efficient but also trusted by all Namibians,” he said.
