GOBABIS- Officially marking the commencement of activities for the Omaheke Regional Council for 2026, regional council chairperson Rocco Nguvauva and the region’s governor, Pijoo Nganate, both agreed that for effective and timely service delivery, working together is no longer an option but a must.
A recent gathering held at the Wennie Du Plessis Secondary School Hall in Gobabis marked the opening of activities for the regional council, where Nguvauva and Nganate set the tone for the year and outlined planned development activities for 2026.
Nganate underscored the importance of operational synergies amongst the region’s public institutions, especially those entrusted with the tasks of getting basic but highly vital services to the region’s inhabitants.
“As leaders and public servants, we must remember that development is not only about reports and budgets. It is about dignity. It is about making daily life easier for our people. It is about ensuring that government services are reliable, accessible, and efficient. When a household in even the most remote corner of the Omaheke Region receives water without interruption, that is service delivery. When a small business owner receives a permit without unnecessary delay, that is service delivery. In 2026, we must raise the standard,” said Nganate.
He continued: “Another area where we must improve is coordination. Development cannot happen in isolation. The regional council, local authorities, traditional leaders, central government offices, and the private sector must work together with greater alignment. When communication is weak, projects are delayed. When planning is not aligned, resources are duplicated. When we collaborate early and effectively, outcomes improve. This year, let us strengthen planning meetings, share information openly, and support one another in fulfilling our respective mandates. We must also focus strongly on economic inclusion. Unemployment remains a serious challenge. Our youth are ambitious and capable, yet many struggle to access opportunity.”
Collaboration
For Nguvauva and fellow councillors, he said 2026 will be anchored on a renewed focus on operational excellence, infrastructure development, socio-economic development and uplifting the living standards of the communities.
“As we officially open this new year, let us recommit to unity, hard work, and service. Omaheke is rich in potential, its people, land, livestock, and spirit. Together, guided by our Constitution, laws, and strategic vision, we will transform challenges into opportunities and aspirations into achievements. We must provide economic opportunities to reduce extreme poverty, create employment opportunities and improve quality of life,” echoed Nguvauva. He too highlighted the need for collaboration and unity at all levels, particularly when it comes to matters of service delivery and development in all corners of the region.
“This institution rises or falls on your shoulders. The trust placed in us by the people demands nothing less than excellence in every task, no matter how small. I, therefore, implore each one of you to raise the bar, deliver services with greater speed, efficiency, and professionalism; treat every resident, visitor, and stakeholder with genuine respect, empathy, and courtesy that reflects the dignity of public office; and uphold the highest standards of customer care in our offices and in the field,” he added.