Former leaders and community members in Oshana have heaped praise on Commissioner Naftal Lungameni Sackaria. 

They described him as a disciplined, people-centred and results-driven leader, whose impact will be felt for years to come following his well-deserved appointment to a senior national position. 

Former Oshana regional governor Elia Irimari, who worked closely with Lungameni for nearly five years, said the promotion reflects his consistent performance and dedication to duty. 

“This is the news I have been expecting. Lungameni is a highly skilled leader, and Oshana had become too small for his capabilities,” he said. 

Irimari noted that, during Lungameni’s tenure, the region experienced a clear shift in policing efficiency and operational discipline. 

He said law enforcement became more visible, more responsive and more structured under his leadership. 

“Lungameni’s work is not just discussed in meetings but is implemented swiftly and effectively,” he added. 

Irimari said, even during large public gatherings and sensitive security situations, Lungameni ensured order, coordination and professionalism, earning respect from both officers and the public. 

He emphasised that the reduction in criminal activities such as theft, robbery and gender-based violence was not accidental, but a result of strong leadership, strategic planning and consistent follow up on policing operations. 

He added that, even with Lungameni’s new position, change should be expected. 

“Change will be expected very soon, and good things will also be happening that side,” Irimari said. 

Ondangwa mayor Paavo Amwele praised Lungameni, describing him as a leader who maintained close contact with communities and local authorities. 

He always made time for everyone, listening carefully to community concerns. 

“When urgent matters arose, he acted decisively and deployed teams quickly to resolve issues,” Amwele said. 

Amwele added that Lungameni’s leadership helped strengthen trust between law enforcement and the public, making communities feel safer and more engaged in security efforts. 

Oshakati resident Frieda Jeremia said she admired his approachable nature and his ability to engage directly with residents. 

He created opportunities to engage with the community and inspired confidence among residents. 

“You could see that he truly cared about people,” she said. 

Jeremia added that his presence in the region brought reassurance, especially during times of uncertainty, as residents felt police were more accessible and responsive. 

Across Oshana, residents and community leaders have expressed appreciation for his service, wishing him success in his next chapter and confidence that he will continue to serve with the same dedication at national level. 

The Inspector General of the Namibian Police, Joseph Shikongo, announced that Lungameni has been appointed as head of security at the Office of the President under President Netumbo Nandi- Ndaitwah. 

He is expected to assume his new duties on 1 May 2026 at State House. 

Lungameni has served as regional commander of Oshana since 2021 after his appointment by Shikongo. 

During this time, he established a reputation as a firm, disciplined and strategic leader, who prioritised operational efficiency and accountability within the police force. 

Under his leadership, Oshana recorded a noticeable decline in crime, including theft, robbery and gender-based violence. 

Community members have credited increased police visibility, improved response times and stronger coordination of operations as key factors behind these improvements. 

His tenure is widely seen as a period that strengthened public trust in law enforcement and improved cooperation between communities and police structures. 

Lungameni is among several senior officers who received new appointments within the Namibian Police. 

Commissioner Julia Sakua Neo has been appointed as regional commander of Zambezi region, while Andreas Nelumbu moves from the Presidency to head Kavango East. 

Meanwhile Andreas Shipingana Shilelo has been transferred from Zambezi to take over as Oshana’s new regional commander. 

– taimihaihambo2000@gmail.com