Staff Reporter
Dr Kenneth Kennedy Shoombe has been appointed Chief Veterinary Officer within the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, effective August 2025.
In addition to this role, he will also represent Namibia as the official Delegate to the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), advocating for the country’s interests in international veterinary affairs.
“Dr Shoombe was appointed by the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform in accordance with Section 2 of the Animal Health Act, 2011 (Act No. 1 of 2011). Dr Shoombe joined the Public Service in 2005 and has since held numerous supervisory roles within the Directorate of Veterinary Services,” the ministry explained in a statement.
The ministry noted that Dr Shoombe served as Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer from 2016, with responsibility for animal disease control. In this capacity, he has led critical national programmes aimed at safeguarding animal health and enhancing livestock trade. The ministry revealed that he also chaired the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA) Sub-Working Group on Animal Health, which focuses on cross-border cooperation in disease prevention and control.
“His dedication, expertise and leadership have been instrumental in facilitating strategic animal health initiatives. Dr Shoombe brings with him many years of extensive experience in veterinary services and a deep institutional understanding of global animal health systems and protocols,” the ministry added.
The ministry further highlighted his active involvement in both regional and international veterinary forums, where he has played a pivotal role in shaping policies to enhance Namibia’s compliance with global standards.
“We extend our full support to Dr Shoombe as he assumes this important role and continues to lead Namibia’s veterinary services towards sustainable livestock development, improved animal health systems, and strengthened international partnerships,” the ministry added.
