Dalene Kooper
Fresh out of high school, Rivonia Roswitha Roman manifested her career as a control administrative officer at the Kunene Regional Council. She started as a volunteer, editing the local newspaper for the Khorixas Town Council. She imagined herself occupying an office in that office.
“I told myself, one day I shall occupy this office to serve my people.”
Born and bred in the dusty terrains of Khorixas, Kunene region, Roman first joined the Kunene council office in 2007. Working under the international humanitarian organisation ‘Medicos del Mundo’, providing HIV/AIDS workplace wellness and community programmes. Roman quickly became knowledgeable in her field and adapted to the environment of serving civilians.
She holds a business administration degree from the Polytechnic of Namibia (NUST) and is currently pursuing her honours degree from the Southern Business School.
“I studied at the Polytechnic of Namibia, majoring in project management. A certificate in HIV/AIDS Wellness programme. And now I am doing my honours in business administration,” Roman remarked.
Roman has been a civil servant for 18 years. She has ventured into other fields such as public relations and events management to build her portfolio.
“My passion comes from the love for my region, to serve all Namibians regardless of who they are or where they come from. If I am able, with the help of our Heavenly Father, I shall serve,” Roman says.
As a Control Administrative Officer, Roman ensures the implementation of the region’s annual work plan. Create platforms to solicit input from the Community Development (CDC) Committee on projects and submit budget proposals to the deputy director.
“I ensure the reconciliation of transactions and write monthly reports.”
When asked what her role means to her, she states, the development of her constituency, region and country at large.
“I am entrusted to assist my people to develop themselves,” she says.
The most rewarding and exciting part of Roman’s job is when she does her job properly and people are happy.
“I love my job because I am able to work directly with the community on the ground, listening to advice, and hearing problems and recommendations,” said the admin officer.
Despite growing tired from her daily tasks, Roman wakes up every morning determined to venture into settlements and chase goals.
Her role as control admin places her between the community and the politicians. Carrying out activities and demands from both sides.
“Sometimes I receive insults from people, because we are the mechanics behind politicians’ promises. It is a huge responsibility to serve the public and I am willing to continue my passion and provide for my family,” Roman stated.
She highlighted that some of her achievements while serving in the public sector is that she assisted many young people acquire erven to build their homes while reactivating the Build Together housing programme. She has organised and managed Kunene Regional Council exhibitions at Windhoek Showgrounds, Ongwediva Trade Fair and the Okakarara Expo.
“My work requires commitment, hard work, teamwork, accountability and most definitely passion and dedication to deliver quality and efficient services to the residents of Kunene.” Driven by her family to continue her passion, Roman urges every young person to be hardworking and committed to their craft.
“Every young person in my region should aspire to be hardworking and committed to providing for themselves. Be committed to quality service delivery, not only by being a public servant but by working to not be dependent on anyone but themselves,” she inspired.
“We all have talents. Let us open up our talents to serve one another.”