Joseph Kaula  

EENHANA -The Ohangwena region ushered in a new era of political leadership last week as newly elected regional and local authority councillors took their oaths of office, marking the official start of their new term. 

The swearing-in ceremony brought together leaders from across the region’s constituencies, reaffirming their commitment to service delivery and development.

Twelve councillors were sworn in to the Ohangwena Regional Council, including Efraim Lebeus (Okongo), who was also elected chairperson of the Management Committee. Serving alongside him on the management committee are William Shatimwene, Hilaria Ndjuluwa and Josef Stalin Nenghwanya. 

The council further elected Olivia Hanghuwo, Mateus Nanghama and Erickson Ndawanifa as representatives to the National Council.

In his remarks, Lebeus urged councillors to work in unity and prioritise the needs of residents across the region.

At Helao Nafidi local authority, Darius Shaalukeni retained the mayoral seat, deputised by Maria Mbangula. Ugenia Shinohamba was elected chairperson of the Management Committee, joined by Ndinelao Matias and Heita Hamunyela, while Loide Hamutenya and Festus Erickson will serve as additional councillors.

The Okongo Village Council elected Tuhafeni Nghidipohamba Pengevali Shapopi as its new chairperson, with Eunike Ndahafa Shinyongo as vice chairperson. Councillors Lasarus Shapwa, Aina Ndapandula Sheetekela and Paulus Munalye Kapolo will serve as ordinary members.

In Eenhana, Omri-Onn Kavandje was re-elected mayor, supported by deputy mayor Selma Pehovelo Inghepa. The Management Committee will be led by Easter Delemina Mokaxwa, with Job Nghishongwa and Simon Protasius as members.

The newly installed leaders committed themselves to accountable governance and improved public service delivery for all residents of Ohangwena. 

* Joseph Kaula is an Information Officer in the Ministry of ICT, based in Ohangwena.