Lahja Nashuuta
Deputy commissioner Helen Charmaine Tsaes-Gaweses is a seasoned detective serving at the policy, planning and development directorate as the project manager of the electronic systems under the Ministry of Safety and Security – Namibian Police Force. She is committed to leveraging technology for effective policing and safeguarding.
She is responsible for database management, and ensures that critical information is accurately recorded, securely stored and easily accessible for decision-making and investigative purposes. This improves the police’s ability to solve crimes, track trends and allocate resources effectively, ultimately enhancing public safety.
As deputy commissioner (project manager), Tsaes-Gaweses holds other pivotal roles in the leadership and administration of the police force. Her other key roles are overseeing the implementation and management of advanced electronic systems within the police force.
“This includes being part of the development and integration of new technologies to enhance our operational capabilities, streamline processes, and improve communication and coordination among officers,” she said.
She is also responsible for the training programmes on the e-policing system for all police officers in the regions. This involves designing and conducting training sessions to ensure officers are well-prepared to perform their duties, stay updated with the latest law-enforcement techniques, and maintain high standards of professionalism and ethics.
She is the team leader in implementing, auditing and monitoring databases critical to police operations.
Ensuring and maintaining the integrity and security of these databases is a top priority, she said.
“I am involved in the strategic planning of electronic policing to ensure the organisation can meet current and future challenges. This includes analysing trends, identifying areas for improvement and implementing initiatives to strengthen our capabilities,” Tsaes-Gaweses said.
He is a highly-qualified law officer, with several qualifications in various fields.
She holds a National Diploma in Police Science, a Bachelor of Technology degree in Human Resources, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Project Management, and an Honours Degree in Business Administration in Project Management. She is studying for her Master’s Degree in Business Management (MBM).
She says her expertise in project management and electronic systems has significantly enhanced the operational efficiency of the police force. “By implementing advanced technologies, I have streamlined processes, improved data accuracy and facilitated better communication and coordination among officers. This has led to more effective law-enforcement and quicker response times to incidents, she maintained.
Humble beginnings
Tsaes-Gaweses joined the public service as a police officer at 21, and had started training at Luiperds Valley Training College. She has been in the police force for 31 years.
She reveals while she has always been a fan of public service, she never knew she would end up spending the biggest part of her life as a dedicated civil servant, and still doing what she loves.
“My childhood dream wasn’t specifically to work for the government. It developed into a clear aspiration as I grew older and understood the impact I could have through public service,” she said.
Tsaes-Gaweses believes the love of serving the public is in her family genes.
“Initially, it’s a family legacy. My grandfather, the late Nikolaus Petrus Munika Ribebe was a police officer before independence, and his tales of service and dedication had a profound influence on me,” she said.
She says her father was her source of inspiration, demonstrating the honour and responsibility that come with wearing the badge. “His legacy instilled in me a deep respect for the profession, and motivated me to follow in his footsteps,” she said.
“From a young age, I have always felt a strong sense of duty towards my community. I believe in the importance of giving back, and contributing to the safety and well-being of others. Being a police officer allows me to directly serve and protect my community, which is a deeply fulfilling role for me,” she said.
She further points to several role models in law-enforcement, such as retired deputy commissioner Dons Marais, late detective chief inspector Asser Kapukare, late detective Ou Seun /Goagoseb and retired inspector Salmon Salex !Gaoseb.
“I was fortunate to join their ranks and undergo the transformative experience of their mentorship. Their encouragement and support instilled in me the confidence to navigate the challenges and complexities of law-enforcement with integrity and resilience,” she said.
Challenges
Her job is not without challenges. One of the most challenging aspects of her career is implementing advanced electronic systems and databases, while ensuring the privacy and civil liberties of the public are respected.
She says striking the right balance between leveraging technology for effective policing and safeguarding individual rights requires constant vigilance and ethical considerations.
Tsaes-Gaweses also pointed out that ensuring all regions have the necessary resources, whether personnel, equipment or training, is complex. Prioritising needs and managing limited resources effectively can be challenging, especially when faced with unexpected situations or emergencies.
Furthermore, she said upholding high standards of professionalism and ethics and ensuring that all officers adhere to these standards requires robust training programmes, consistent oversight and a strong internal culture of accountability and integrity, is another challenge.
She, however, maintained that she knew her work directly contributed to the safety and well-being of the community. Whether it’s through crime prevention, responding to emergencies or supporting victims, the positive impact on people’s lives is immensely rewarding.
“Watching my team members grow, develop their skills and succeed in their roles brings me great satisfaction.
As a leader, providing mentorship, guidance and opportunities for professional development is incredibly fulfilling,” she said.
Accomplishments
Tsaes-Gaweses was among the team that spearheaded the National Crime Combating Strategy Project.
“I have contributed to the development and implementation of strategies aimed at reducing crime and enhancing public safety. This project involves extensive analysis, planning and collaboration with various stakeholders,” she said.
Conducting a feasibility study on plea bargaining and the e-justice database in Phoenix, Arizona in the USA was a significant achievement. This study provided valuable insights into modernising the justice system and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the legal processes.
Another feasibility study on the e-policing system in Beijing, China was instrumental in understanding the capabilities and benefits of e-policing, which has since been integrated into Nampol’s operational framework.
Going forward
Tsaes-Gaweses said she has already decided to work for the government until retirement. She, however, says she will only serve for the next eight years, as she is considering retiring at the age of 55.
“My commitment to public service remains unwavering. Over the next eight years, I plan to continue contributing my skills, experience and leadership to ensure that our police force remains effective and responsive to the needs of our community,” she said. As she approaches retirement, Tsaes-Gaweses said: “I take pride in the legacy I have built, and the impact I have made. Knowing that I have groomed a capable and dedicated team provides me with the assurance that the police force will continue to excel.”
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