WALVIS BAY – Erongo governor Natalia /Goagoses has urged the regional council to prioritise service delivery, accountability and inclusivity. 

During the launch of the Erongo region’s 2026/27–2029/30 strategic plan and the 2025/26 budget, /Goagoses emphasised the importance of elected leaders understanding their roles in transforming the region to bring about economic and social upliftment for its residents. 

The region’s strategic plan, which was launched in Walvis Bay earlier this week, focuses on sustainable, inclusive development and improved service delivery. 

The plan also highlights the Erongo Regional Council’s plans to enhance socio-economic growth and the quality of life for residents, with priorities such as infrastructure development in water supply pipelines, sanitation systems, low-cost housing and road upgrades. 

The governor stressed the plan must translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives: “Communities do not eat plans and policies but survive on tangible services.” 

“You have been elected by more than 200 000 residents of this region. They placed their trust in you. So let us lead by example. When they open a tap, there must be clean water. When they send their children to school, there must be teachers and classrooms. When they visit clinics, there must be medicines,” she said. 

/Goagoses added that the budget and the strategic plan are moral documents that reflect government priorities, and that allocated resources should be used to address social issues. 

“When you allocate resources, remember the pensioner who is struggling, the unemployed youth searching for opportunities, the small business owner trying to survive and the children who need schools.” 

The governor also stressed the need for accountability and discipline in implementing council projects, saying no matter how good a plan or budget might be, without accountability or discipline, it would not work. 

Hence, she urged councillors and administration officers to execute all tasks effectively and without delay. 

“Development that leaves people behind is not development . This plan must cater for people with disabilities, women, the youth, and marginalised communities,” said /Goagoses. 

She described Erongo region as being central to Namibia’s economy, noting its mining, fisheries, ports and tourism sectors. She added that the region is blessed with natural resources and plays a critical role in the country’s economy. “We cannot take that for granted. We must plan wisely and use our resources for the benefit of all residents, not just a few. Currently our biggest enemies are poverty and unemployment. The only way to defeat them is through bold and decisive governance, rooted in integrity and service. Therefore, we must serve with humility and purpose,” /Goagoses appealed. 

She stressed that leadership is not about positions, titles or power, but about service and the legacy leaders leave behind. 

-edeklerk@nepc.com.na