Lahja Nashuuta
Alpha Mbanyanda Uzera, a Senior Private Secretary in the Office of the President within the Governor’s Office subdivision in Kunene, represents a new wave of young professionals excelling in public service.
A political science graduate from the University of Namibia and currently studying law through distance learning at Triumphant College, Uzera holds a crucial behind-the-scenes position in managing the Kunene Governor’s Office.
“I am the person who works in the background to ensure the smooth operation of the office. I can go from responding to emails to physically arranging chairs for a meeting in no time,” he explained.
Uzera is relatively new to the public service, having joined on 1 April 2025. Before that, he was primarily engaged in academic work. “I was involved in scholarly research writing and opinion publications. I was not formally employed and spent much of my time at the university completing my undergraduate degree in Political Science,” he said.
His decision to join the public service was driven by a long-standing passion for community engagement.“From a very young age, I have always had an interest in community service, whether through charity work or political activism,” he noted.
He mentioned that government service offers valuable exposure and opportunities for professional development.
“This environment allows me to continuously develop my skills, build networks, and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
Regional success
Although Uzera has just over a year of experience in the public sector, he has already contributed to several notable achievements.
One of these is the construction of key road infrastructure, including the Oute Bridge project led by the Kunene Governor. He explained that the bridge was well overdue, as communities were often cut off during the rainy season.
“When the river would flow, people on either side could not cross to access essential services in Opuwo or return to their homes. The bridge has made a significant difference in their lives,” he said.
Uzera also highlighted the successful selection of 93 beneficiaries under the National Youth Development Fund during its pilot phase, in which the Governor’s Office assisted applicants with their business proposals.
“We have further empowered 15 young people with beekeeping training and equipment to start honey production businesses under the Kunene Capital Fund, which aims to uplift and empower residents in the region,” he added.
Challenges
Like any profession, public service presents its challenges. For Uzera, the greatest obstacle has been balancing work and personal life.
“It is very challenging, considering the workload and unpredictable schedules. However, with the team we have under Honourable Muharukua’s leadership, nothing is insurmountable,” he said.
“The Governor constantly reminds us that we are each other’s keepers, so we tackle challenges one day at a time, steadily and decisively.” Despite the demands of the job, Uzera finds fulfilment in serving communities.
“The most satisfying part of the job is seeing the impact of our work when community members have access to clean drinking water, food, or opportunities to earn a livelihood. That is what motivates me to keep going,” he said.
He believes his academic background plays a crucial role in his effectiveness at work.
“My expertise contributes significantly to the administration of the office. I am skilled in report writing and minute-taking, which I developed during my time at university. I am also an avid reader, which helps me stay informed and provide accurate, up-to-date information,” he explained.
Public service misconceptions
Addressing the common perception that public servants are ineffective or uncommitted, Uzera strongly disagrees.
“That misconception exists, but it does not apply to me or our office. Our work ethic is second to none. Community members often ask us if we ever rest or get tired. That speaks to our dedication,” he said.
“We are always ready to assist, no matter the time. People may say many things about us, but they will never say we are lazy or unproductive.”
Looking ahead, Uzera has clear ambitions for its future. He hopes to pursue postgraduate studies in International Relations, with the ultimate goal of entering diplomacy.
“I am particularly interested in joining the diplomatic corps. This ambition is one of the reasons I chose to study Political Science as my first qualification,” he revealed.