Namibian Sun

1. What unique attributes do you bring to the SOE CEO Forum?

I bring a dynamic and transformational leadership to the table with a vision to always empower those around me. I bring years of management experience from both the private and public sectors. Perhaps my upbringing, which was characterised by associations with different people across the ethnic, racial, political, and cultural divide, also has its share in my inclusive leadership approach. I strongly believe in tapping into the ideas and skills of others, even those seen or regarded to be the least.

I particularly draw much encouragement from the late former cabinet member and minister of education Dr Abraham Iyambo, who attributed some of his success in transforming the educational sector to ideas he received from cleaners, parents, and teachers as he travelled the country. I believe every member of the forum has his or her unique role to play in the success and transformation of public enterprises.

2. What are your primary focus areas during your tenure as chair of the SOE Forum?

I look forward to cementing the relationship that has already been established between the government, through the ministry of public enterprises, and the Public Enterprises CEOs forum, with a view to maintaining and strengthening these relationships.

Another key focus area is to strengthen commercial relations within SOEs as a means of strengthening the overall SOE value chain, which will simultaneously strengthen our shareholder value. There is ample room for state-owned entities to explore business relationships within the ambit of relevant legal framework such as the Public Procurement Act of 2015, the Competition Act of 2003, the Companies Act of 2004, as well as the Corporate Governance Code for Namibia (NAMCODE), amongst others.

Public enterprises play a vital role in our economy by making significant contributions to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) such as providing necessary infrastructure and essential services, just to mention a few`. Therefore, if public enterprises flourish, Namibia will also flourish.

My duty as the chairperson is to improve the plight of the forum and enhance its strategic objectives. To be the voice and representation of the various public enterprises. Although we've seen improvement in the overall governance of many public enterprises there is still room for improvement.

3. Any issue that is of particular concern to your fellow managing directors and chief executive officers?

Indeed: the current government position to bar managing directors and chief executive officers from serving as board members of state-owned entities. I believe this deprives state-owned enterprises and the country at large of priceless skills many of the serving chief executive officers can offer to fellow SOEs. Though we can engage and be of value to one another through informal forums, the depth of input and impact cannot be equated to that of a serving as board member. I also intend to assist in the drive towards profitability of many public enterprises especially those that are commercial in nature.

4. What is your favourite restaurant and what’s your go-to order?

My favourite restaurant is Olivia's Kitchen and I love their protein bowl. It not only offers a great environment, but a variety of meals with a lot of healthy options, especially in terms of juices.