Lahja Nashuuta
The State-owned August 26 Holdings has secured and completed more than 150 government contracts worth over N$1 billion in the past decade, Defence and Veterans Affairs Minister Frans Kapofi has confirmed.
Founded on 14 August 1998, and fully owned by the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs, August 26 Holdings operates in construction, logistics and support services tailored to the needs of the Namibians.
Despite its critical role, questions have been raised about its operations, especially concerning its construction arm, August 26 Construction.
Last week, Job Amupanda, leader of the Affirmative Repositioning movement, challenged the company’s integrity and the ministry’s oversight.
He accused the defence ministry and its entities of misconduct and corruption, of which Kapofi rejected some allegations.
He assured that others would be investigated.
Among the cases under scrutiny is an N$8 million car parts invoice.
While a staff member has been suspended, Kapofi stressed that no public funds were lost.
The minister maintained that “Upon hearing these claims, and with the money not having reflected on August 26 Construction’s bank account, the company opened a case of fraud and misrepresentation (case number CR124/11/2024). The matter is under police investigation. Should the findings point to fraud and misrepresentation, the law will surely take its course,” he said.
He clarified confusion about a reported N$3 million misappropriation at August 26 Logistics.
He said it was an unauthorised advance of N$2.5 million, which is still under investigation.
Another allegation involved a N$4 million payment linked to the //Kharas Regional Council.
Kapofi noted that this amount never entered August 26 Holdings’ accounts.
Police are investigating possible fraud and misrepresentation.
The minister, however, maintained that “All contracts have been awarded strictly according to the Public Procurement Act of 2015”, dismissing any claims of impropriety.
He said August 26 Construction frequently takes on the challenge of rescuing projects abandoned by private contractors.
“Some projects were simply left unfinished by private companies,” the minister said.
“August 26 Construction had to step in, take over and complete these projects swiftly and within budget, effectively acting as the ‘messiah’ for these stranded developments,” Kapofi stated.
Among the achievements under August 26 Construction, he highlighted projects such as the Schuckmannsburg Secondary School in the Zambezi region, the Ohangwena Education Directorate head office and the Opuwo Police Headquarters in the Kunene region.
He pointed out the recent construction of 520 classrooms to address a nationwide shortage of classrooms in the country.
Kapofi said more than 90% of these classrooms were built in just four months, an achievement the minister praised as a testament to the company’s dedication and patriotism.
“This project was essential in addressing the urgent and widespread need for classrooms across Namibia,” he stated.
He added that “August 26 Construction understood the profound impact this would have on the future of our children and showed unparalleled commitment by delivering over 90% of the classrooms in record time”.
Beyond construction, Kapofi revealed that August 26 Holdings works closely with small and medium enterprises, forming joint ventures and subcontracting to empower local businesses and promote economic growth.
“We remain vigilant and proactive in addressing all incidents of misconduct,” he affirmed.
He added that August 26 Holdings continues to fulfil its mandate of supporting the defence force while contributing meaningfully to Namibia’s development.
– lnashuuta@nepc.com.na