The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Poverty Eradication, Labour, and Industrial Relations, Justine Jonas, says insufficient engagement from local officials is hindering their ability to gather comprehensive information on regional developments.

Poor attendance of oversight visits by regional leaders has disappointed the committee, which is currently conducting visits in the Kavango East and West Regions.

"I think it's important that those who are mandated with responsibilities in the offices must take their work very seriously. While we conduct oversight functions, we expect those on the other side to take our work seriously. However, if we begin questioning and you start to defend yourself, it indicates to me that something is wrong," said Jonas.

Jonas expressed concern after realising that the individuals assigned to represent the regional council were not well acquainted with some of the government projects.

The poorly attended meeting, which was originally scheduled for August, has been postponed to September due to other equally important responsibilities.