Auleria Wakudumo 

The City of Windhoek continues to prioritise effective governance and improved service delivery through a structured capacity development programme for its councillors. 

City spokesperson Lydia Amutenya said the initiative was implemented under Council Resolution 182/08/2021, adopted on 31 August 2021, to ensure that all councillors are supported with opportunities to enhance their skills and competencies. 

The programme forms part of its broader onboarding process following the swearing-in of councillors in November 2020. 

“It is designed to equip council members with the knowledge and expertise required to effectively execute their duties in a dynamic local government environment,” she said. 

Amutenya stated that the capacity development support includes a range of interventions such as academic studies, workshops, benchmarking exercises and departmental site visits. These initiatives aim to strengthen leadership, improve decision-making and ensure councillors are well-positioned to respond to the needs of residents. 

She noted that the programme is administered in line with the municipality’s Training and Development Policy, which applies to both councillors and staff. 

“The policy is guided by principles of fairness, equity and transparency, ensuring equal access to development opportunities,” she said. 

Amutenya explained that training support provided under the programme is classified as specialised training and is regarded as a once-off investment in the development of council members. 

Beneficiaries are required to pursue learning opportunities that align with their roles and contribute directly to improved organisational effectiveness. 

The City emphasised that investing in the development of its leadership is key to strengthening institutional capacity. By enhancing the skills, knowledge and experience of councillors, the municipality aims to improve accountability, policy direction and overall service delivery. 

Amutenya further highlighted that the initiative is part of a broader vision to build a capable and responsive council that can meet the growing demands of Windhoek’s residents. 

“Through continuous training and development, the City is positioning its leadership to drive sustainable progress and deliver quality services to the community,” she noted. 

One of the beneficiaries is Queen Omagano Kamati, former mayor of Windhoek and currently serving as a councillor in the City of Windhoek. 

Kamati pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management at the Stellenbosch Business School in South Africa as part of the City’s development programme aimed at strengthening leadership and improving service delivery. 

-awakudumo@nepc.com.na