Lahja Nashuuta 

Hastings Ntema may not wear a suit or sit behind a desk, but his daily efforts help keep the wheels of government turning smoothly. 

A dedicated worker at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security in Windhoek, Ntema is the kind of public servant whose contributions are often overlooked but are very essential. 

His journey is a reminder that dignity lies not in titles, but in contribution. Though his work is manual, Ntema’s heart is deeply invested in public service. His story is a quiet testimony to resilience, humility, and the unsung importance of every role within government. 

“I’m just a helping hand. But without that hand, many things won’t get done,” he says with humility. 

Ntema joined the public sector in 2016, fulfilling a childhood dream that had taken root from an early age. “Growing up, I always wanted to work for the government. I was inspired by my parents and siblings who were all civil servants. The way they spoke about the pride of serving the nation and the benefits of being a government worker made a big impression on me,” he says. 

Before joining government service, Ntema worked part-time in the construction industry, where he developed a strong work ethic and practical skills. He believes those experiences helped shape the responsible and hands-on approach he brings to his current role. 

His day – to-day duties are varied and physically demanding. “I’m responsible for loading and offloading office materials, maintaining indoor and outdoor plants, doing minor repairs such as replacing doors, and providing general office support when needed,” he explains. 

Despite the physical nature of his job, Ntema takes pride in what he does. However, he is not blind to the challenges. One of the most painful aspects of his role is the lack of respect he is sometimes subjected to by colleagues. “People look down on me because I’m always seen carrying things, fixing furniture, or watering plants,” he says quietly. “Sometimes, they think because I don’t have a degree or a fancy title, I don’t matter,” he said. 

But instead of letting this attitude discourage him, Ntema uses it as a teaching tool. “I always try to educate others on the importance of what I do. If I don’t clean or fix things, who will? Every job has value, and dignity doesn’t come from the position, but from how you carry yourself ” he mantained. 

He adds: “I may not be a director or a manager, but I’m part of the team that keeps everything running. I’m proud of that”. 

Ntema’s positive attitude and willingness to help have earned him quiet admiration from those who take the time to notice. What he enjoys the most is being useful – whether it’s guiding lost visitors to the right office, assembling broken furniture, or helping relocate staff members during office moves. “I like helping people. It makes me feel part of something bigger,” he says. 

One of his most memorable experiences was during the relocation to the ministry’s new office building, in Windhoek North in time for official inauguration. “That day was special,” he recalls with a smile. “I felt proud I was part of a major transition. I helped move things, set up new workspaces, and made sure the place was presentable. Seeing it all come together during the inauguration was unforgettable.” 

Asked about the common perception that public servants are lazy or inefficient, Ntema firmly disagrees. “That’s not true. In government, we work under strict rules and codes of conduct. Every employee has a supervisor who checks on performances. Yes, some people may take advantage of the system, but that happens everywhere, not just in the public sector,” he maintained. 

Ntema believes most civil servants are committed and hardworking, especially those in support roles who often go unrecognised. “People only see the results, not the work that goes into it behind the scenes,” he says. 

Looking ahead, Ntema has dreams of self-improvement and upward mobility. On his wish list is furthering his education. “I want to go back and improve my Grade 12 results,” he says, adding that: “I know if I get better qualifications, I can apply for better positions in future. I want to grow”. 

– lnashuuta@nepc.com.na