Newly-appointed members of the Namibian Veterinary Council were reminded of their overarching responsibilities in ensuring the country remains well on track in terms of setting global standards for the veterinary profession.
During the unveiling ceremony of the new members, deputy minister of agriculture Anna Shiweda said the council is not only there to regulate and oversee all statutory activities around the profession, but also plays a huge role in the areas of food security and general animal healthcare. “In order to fulfil its mandate and meet its obligation to the profession and the public, the council must regulate the practising of the veterinary profession and para-veterinary professions, and the registration of persons practising such professions. It must also determine the minimum standards of tuition and training required for degrees, diplomas and certificates, entitling the holders thereof to be registered to practice the veterinary profession. Council must also encourage and promote efficiency in and responsibility with regard to the practice of the veterinary profession,” said Shiweda.
The new veterinary council members, who are set to serve until 2027, are Dr Alexandra Marko (representative of the Veterinary Association of Namibia), Emmanuel Matheus (elected veterinary para-professional), Dr Detlef Marggraff (elected veterinarian), Dr Anna Marais (elected veterinarian), Anna Shiweda (deputy agriculture minister), Sunè de Klerk (legal practitioner), Malaika Loschke (elected para-professional), Dr Paul Set (elected veterinarian) and Dr Veronica Amunyela (representative of the Veterinary Association of Namibia).
The minister emphasised that the new council members must exercise effective control over professional conduct of persons practising the veterinary profession, and determine the standards of professional conduct of veterinarians.
“You must also protect the interests of the veterinary profession and para-veterinary professions, and deal with any matter related to such interests. You will be expected to maintain and enhance the prestige, status and dignity of the veterinary profession, and the integrity of persons practising such professions. In order for this council to successfully execute its mandate, you must fully commit your time and effort to the duties of the veterinary council.”
The Namibian Veterinary Council is a statutory body that is responsible for regulating the standards of veterinary and veterinary para-professions in the country.
– ohembapu@nepc.com.na