Niël Terblanché
Public servants can look forward to an increase in their Daily Subsistence Allowance (DSA), commonly referred to as S&Ts, effective from 1 April.
The announcement was made by I-Ben Nashandi, the executive director in the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), during the official opening of the institution’s annual planning workshop currently underway in Swakopmund.
Nashandi said the adjustment in S&T rates has not been finalised yet but that it is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance employee welfare and performance within the public sector.
He also stressed the importance of embracing technological advancements and innovative solutions to align with Namibia’s long-term development agenda.
“The plans we are crafting are the answers to the plight of our people. We must bring about the change needed and transform the way the government responds speedily to the needs of our people,” he said.
He also urged civil servants to move beyond a ‘business-as-usual’ approach and focus on impactful planning that drives national progress.
Nashandi reminded attendees of the country’s trajectory towards Vision 2030, highlighting that Namibia is now just five years away from its national development milestone.
He also called for renewed commitment to the upcoming Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which will play a crucial role in realising the country’s socio-economic aspirations.
“As we gather here to craft a last strategic plan towards Vision 2030, let us place the people at the centre of our plans. Some of these strategies include maintaining a sustainable economy, leveraging knowledge and technology, and mainstreaming employee wellness into development policies,” he said.
Nashandi said the annual planning workshop serves as a vital platform for government officials to deliberate on policy directions and implementation strategies.
He added that with the introduction of revised S&T rates, improved performance management systems, and digital transformation initiatives, the government aims to bolster efficiency and accountability within the public service.
Nashandi reiterated the need for a collective effort in achieving national goals as the country moves closer to the goals as set out in Vision 2030.
“Once we finalise our plans, the duty lies ahead to execute them effectively. Anything that does not transform is short of a plan. Let us not waste taxpayers’ resources on such,” he warned.
Neville Andre, the governor of the Erongo region, reinforced the significance of strategic planning in governance.
Andre praised the initiative and its alignment with the transition to a new administration, following the recent elections.
“Service delivery is a key aspect of any government, and you are the key agents of service delivery. You as technocrats are the link between the citizen and the politician,” he said.
He encouraged public servants to ensure that their strategic planning aligns with the government’s broader policy frameworks, including Swapo Manifesto Implementation Plan (2025-2030).
Andre also called for a proactive and results-driven approach, urging officials to reflect on past challenges and innovate for future success.
“Let us reflect on past successes and challenges in implementing the manifesto’s goals. What worked? What requires recalibration? And how can we innovate to overcome bottlenecks and maximise impact?” he asked.
