WINDHOEK – The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry has been restructured – the first in 23 years.
The announcement was made last Friday morning when a new organisational structure of three departments and three deputy permanent secretaries was revealed.
The methodology used to develop the strategic plan was based on the Public Planning Framework of the Office of the Prime Minister to ensure uniformity and that the activities of the ministry contribute to the goals and desired outcomes for the respective sectors as outlined in the Fourth National Development Plan, which is being implemented over a period of five years – from 2012/13 to 2016/17.
At the launch of the agriculture ministry’s strategic plan for 2012/13 to 2016/17, Permanent Secretary Joseph Iita said the restructuring was done to achieve the shared vision of the ministry, and help staff members to understand and recognise their contribution to the strategic intent and manage and enhance the performance of the ministry as per the aspirations of Namibia’s Vision 2030.
The newly appointed staff are Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Department of Agriculture Desmond Tshikesho, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Water and Forestry Abraham Nehemia, and Deputy Permanent Secretary of Administration Anna Shiweda.
“The strategic document and new organisational structure will guide the ministry in realising its vision which is to be the leading contributor to food security, agro-product competitiveness, increased and equitable access to all natural resources for improved livelihood and well-being as well as wealth for all,” Iita was quoted as saying.
He said the ministry is conscious and mindful of the challenges facing the agricultural sector at the national, regional and global levels.
“These challenges include the global financial crisis, food and energy crises as well as the global climate change and its impact on the agricultural sector.”
He said the restructuring was done to ensure the ministry reaches its goals in line with Vision 2030 and stressed the importance of the agricultural sector.
“The significance of the sector is undeniable, both in terms of foreign exchange earnings and contribution to Namibia’s balance of trade, and also fundamentally for fighting poverty and improving rural livelihoods, enhancing food security, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources and creating employment. We are satisfied with the achievements of the agricultural sector to date but more can be done for the sector to amplify its contribution to national development,” he noted.
“The ministry was identified as a priority sector necessary to attain the three NDP4 goals which are employment creation, increased income equality and high and sustainable economic growth. To ensure this, we need timely project planning, tender advertisements and adjudication, capital project budget execution and general service delivery for all,” Iita noted.
He said the objectives can only be achieved in collaboration with all the various key stakeholders.
By Deon Schlechter