Maria David
OUTGOING Oshana Regional Governor Elia Irimari expressed deep satisfaction with his six-year tenure, saying he leaves office with no regrets.
His remarks were made during the welcoming ceremony for the newly appointed Governor, Hofni Iipinge, held on Wednesday in Oshakati.
Irimari highlighted his achievements, noting he successfully established a blueprint for the region’s development in collaboration with regional leadership.
WELCOME: The Oshana Regional Council hosting a welcoming ceremony for the Oshana Governor, Hofni Iipinge. Iipinge replaced former governor Elia Irimari, who served as governor since 2025. Video by Maria David
He emphasized significant progress in water infrastructure, road networks, and educational investments during his time as governor.
“I have no regrets as I leave this office, nor have I had anyone talking behind my back that I have not completed my tasks given to me,” he affirmed.
He added that he successfully completed all assigned tasks and oversaw the implementation of various programs. Irimari also indicated his intention to pursue new opportunities that arose during his governorship.
In his address, incoming Governor Iipinge urged Oshana residents to collaborate with his administration to accelerate socioeconomic development, combat inequality, and ensure inclusive growth across the region.
“I am urging all of us – leaders, citizens, and institutions alike – to work together to accelerate socioeconomic development, combat inequality, and ensure that no one is left behind,” he said.
He emphasised a collective approach to achieving development.
Iipinge outlined several key areas of focus for his tenure, saying that they will invest in people, improve infrastructure, grow the economy, create employment opportunities, and protect vulnerable populations.
He affirmed his administration’s commitment to aligning regional programs with national priorities, ensuring all initiatives are people-centred and results-driven.
“We should aim to strengthen public service systems and hold ourselves accountable for the outcomes,” he added.
Iipinge further explained that the SWAPO Party Election Manifesto 2024 will serve as the blueprint for socioeconomic development, with its theme of “Unity in Diversity, Natural Resources Beneficiation and Youth Empowerment for Sustainable Development.”
He clarified that this manifesto, which led to the SWAPO Party being voted to lead Namibia for the next five years, has been translated into the National Development Plan Six (NDP 6).
This plan, he said, will guide their collective path towards equitable prosperity for all in the Oshana Region.
