WINDHOEK – Minister of Labour and Social Welfare Doreen Sioka announced the new Social Security Commission (SSC) board after she fired the previous board in November last year.
This week Sioka, before introducing the new commissioners and without divulging why the former board was fired, said she removed eight members of the previous SSC, including the chairperson based on her authority as the minister of labour. “The other two members had already resigned voluntarily at my request. We managed to ensure the smooth operation of the Social Security Commission to further its objectives. I exercise my powers in the absence of commissioners only when necessary,” said the minister. Retired Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia, Zephania Kameeta is now the board chairperson. Sioka explained that the governance structure of the SSC is tri-partite in nature with equal representation of the state, employers and employees. “These representatives are nominated by the respective social partners and appointed by the minister,” she said, and clarified that the board chairperson is appointed directly by the minister. “Don’t question my appointment, it’s my desire,” said Sioka firmly. She hailed Kameeta as a trustworthy man who has long been an advocate of expanded social protection, adding “as a man of God he is going to serve us as Namibians.”
Board members representing government are Lourencia Tjiho, Rebecca Iyambo and Herman Shitaleni. Those representing employers are Deidre Sauls, Michael Hill and Hilya Nandago, while those representing trade unions are Evans Maswahu, Justina Jonas and Toini Nauyoma. A two-day induction workshop started yesterday to introduce the new board members to their new roles and responsibilities. The minister told the new board that their work as commissioners would require them to provide the oversight and guidance required by the Social Security Act to ensure that the commission achieves its objectives. “I therefore urge you to be well prepared for your meetings at all times in order to ensure that matters for consideration are disposed off diligently in the most efficient manner,” she said. Tjivikua on the occasion encouraged the stakeholder representatives present to foster a culture that is proactive, performance-driven and strategy focused. “Such a work culture will ensure that this institution, which is an unquestionable pillar of social caring and a central point of magnifying the caring nature of our nation is one which we can all be proud to be part of and can call our own,” Tjivikua said.
By Alvine Kapitako