Analysts say technocrats in Cabinet will boost service delivery 

(Contributed Image of H.E Netumbo-Nandi Ndaitwah)

By: Envaalde Matheus

Analysts say President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s appointment of technocrats to Cabinet will improve government efficiency and service delivery.

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s current administration comprises of more technocrats with most selections made from outside the Swapo electoral college list, commonly known as “the pot.”

Public policy analyst Lazarus Kwedhi says the President focused on candidates with reputable professional backgrounds adding that the appointment helps rebuild public trust.

“She’s trying to bring in people with strong reputations, especially from the corporate world, individuals who have been outstanding in their roles and have not been tainted by past scandals,” said Kwedhi .

“This is part of an effort to distance her administration from a legacy of corruption that has eroded trust in public institutions.”

He added that many career politicians who have served in government for extended periods are often viewed by the public as part of a corrupt system.

“You can see she’s trying to move away from that culture by appointing people who the public sees as credible. It’s about restoring confidence in the government.”

Kwedhi also noted that the current political landscape, especially within Parliament, has shifted, and the President appears to be responding to these new dynamics.

Public policy analyst Marius Kudumo said government institutions often have entrenched cultures that resist the changes and innovations technocrats would introduce.

“It’s important that all stakeholders, particularly cabinet ministers, understand the national policy direction and vision.”

He cautioned that clashes could emerge between presidential directives and party expectations.

“In many systems, the party, government, and state are treated as one, which can lead to friction when newly appointed ministers try to push reforms that may not fully align with the party’s traditional approach.”

Presidential spokesperson Alfredo Hengari added that Nandi-Ndaitwah’s technocrats’ appointments are based on skills and competencies, not political favoritism.

“It is therefore incorrect to suggest any bias in the President’s choices,” Hengari said.

“President Nandi-Ndaitwah is implementing a vision grounded in her election manifesto, which includes critical economic enablers and key priorities. The individuals appointed are exceptional in their respective fields and are expected to help deliver on those promises.”

Hengari reiterated that the primary goal of the new cabinet is to improve governance and ensure the effective delivery of services.