Smith rejects TransNamib offer

Elizabeth JosephWindhoekThe TransNamib board of directors yesterday announced that CEO Johny Smith’s five-year contract will end on 31 March.According to spokesperson Abigail Raubenheimer, Smith was offered another five years, but declined to “focus on other opportunities”.Smith was appointed in February 2018 and made several strides during his time as CEO, the board said.“In its 2019/2020 financial year, TransNamib recorded historic revenue growth with a 10.5% increase in freight revenue in more than a decade, giving a promising start to TransNamib’s integrated strategic business plan to transform the company into a sustainable organisation adding value to the Namibian economy,” it said in a statement.According to records, the company’s property revenue also doubled during Smith’s tenure.TransNamib’s financial situation has deteriorated in the last few years, and in 2018, a N$2.5 billion lifeline was approved by Cabinet for the parastatal’s ambitious business plan.When approached for comment yesterday on what’s next for him, Smith said he would not be doing any interviews, but promised to release an official statement next month.CommitmentBoard chairperson Theo Mberirua said despite the company’s financial strain over the years, Smith remained committed.“During his tenure and a very challenging period for all organisations in Namibia and globally, he managed to achieve key highlights.“Given TransNamib’s historical governance issues and its financial constraints, he had a mammoth task in sourcing the funding for the business plan,” Mberirua said.Smith is quoted in the board’s statement, saying although turning the contract extension down was not an easy decision, he has faith that the company is poised to become more sustainable.“The staff is led by both a committed board of directors and a very solid senior management team, whom I would like to extend thanks to for their support over my tenure.”

Smith rejects TransNamib offer

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-16

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Smith rejects TransNamib offer

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-16

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