Adopt president's 'business unusual' mindset, Oshikoto chair tells councillors

Oshikoto chairperson urges staff to deliver on electoral promises

Oshikoto Regional Council chairperson Sakeus Nangula has called on public servants in the region to adopt President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s “business unusual” approach, urging innovation, unity and improved service delivery.

Speaking during his first staff address at the Youth Multi-Purpose Centre in Omuthiya this week, Nangula emphasised that public servants play a critical role in translating council decisions into tangible development outcomes.

“Together, we can and must ensure that innovative service is delivered to the people of the Oshikoto region and Namibia at large,” he said.

He described administrators as the “gears of the engine” that keep the council functioning, stressing that without their active and ethical participation, effective service delivery would not be possible.

Nangula said the council’s leadership has entered into a five-year social contract with residents, aligned with its strategic plan and the ruling party’s manifesto, making it essential for staff to deliver on promises made to the electorate.

He echoed Nandi-Ndaitwah’s directive for a shift towards the “business unusual" mantra, noting that innovation and new approaches are necessary to bring real change to the lives of citizens.

“We cannot afford to continue doing the same things and expect different results,” Nangula stressed, urging staff to intensify efforts in delivering quality and innovative services.

Understand your targets

He also encouraged employees to familiarise themselves with key national and institutional frameworks, including the National Development Plan and the council’s strategic goals, to better understand expectations and targets.

With the first year of the council’s 2025/2026–2029/2030 strategic plan set to conclude at the end of March, Nangula said he is looking forward to an upcoming annual planning and review workshop to assess performance and address gaps.

He further highlighted the importance of communication and stakeholder engagement, warning against situations where development projects are implemented without the knowledge of local councillors.

Nangula cautioned staff against internal divisions such as factionalism, tribalism and workplace sabotage, describing such behaviour as destructive to progress.