The Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS), Lucia Iipumbu, has urged employees across the Ministry to strengthen service delivery and put citizens at the centre of their work.

Addressing staff, Iipumbu said the Ministry plays a critical role in people's lives through the issuance of identity documents, regulation of entry and residence, and the safeguarding of communities. 

She warned that delays, inconsistent information and poor coordination undermine public trust in the State.

"This ministry sits in the centre of people's lives. We issue identity documents. We reiterate entry into the residence. We safeguard communities. We rehabilitate and correct. We uphold the rule of law and public confidence. When we perform well, the nation feels secure in the respected. But when we do not perform well, when we delay, when we send people from one office to the other office, when the files go missing, when people get different answers from one desk to the next, and when we do not give responses, we frustrate the public. And that should be in the past. Going forward, we should make sure that we do not undermine the trust of the people to the state.We are the representative of the state when it comes to that what we are judged with.That is why I speak to you today with appreciation and warmth, but also with fairness on service delivery. Here we cannot negotiate."

The Minister called on officials to align their work with national priorities under the 8th Administration, including NDP6 and the Ministry's Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2030.

While highlighting areas needing improvement, Iipumbu also acknowledged progress made by the Ministry. 

She commended improved turnaround times in the issuance of identity documents, visas and permits, saying the gains reflect increased efficiency across departments.

"I want to extend a special appreciation, and this is unique because even on my way here, somebody was whispering, not knowing that I'm listening, about how clean this building is. The first-class trophy goes to the hygienic officers. Of course we have the newest building in town, but it's the cleanest building in town as well."

She recognised the contribution of the police force for contributing to a reduction in road accidents and improved crime prevention during the festive season.

The Namibian Correctional Service was also praised for improved food production and inclusive recruitment practices.

Iipumbu said the Ministry's achievements demonstrate its ability to deliver when focused and coordinated and urged staff to build on the progress to ensure better and more reliable services for the public in 2026.