The Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni, says the newly inaugurated Uis Settlement Office is a clear testament to bringing services close to the people.

The office was constructed at a cost of N$11 million.

Uutoni applauded the Erongo Regional Council for expressing sound leadership, management, and dedication to duty that has yielded tangible results, such as the Uis settlement office.

He further says that the regional councils are responding to the developmental needs of the people to steer a change in the service delivery cycle.

Uutoni encouraged the Erongo Regional Council to develop a culture of accountability and demonstrate to the local authorities how funds are being managed.

"I wish to mention that it is an uphill task, and I want to caution that remedial actions need to be applied to address all issues that were flagged during the downgrade (more than 12 years ago) and ensure that, if the status is granted, the new entity will operate a model that reassures sustainability and robust accountability systems. It is our ultimate wish to have local authorities that are run effectively and that can be used as learning centres for those faced with governance and management challenges."

The Daures Councillor says he looks forward to more development and services being brought to the doorstep of Uis.

Walvis Bay Rural Councillor Donatus Tegako delivered his speech.

"We would like to welcome all local authorities today who have made time to witness this occasion and to celebrate yet another milestone in the Erongo Region. We plan together and develop together, and you are witnessing the collective effort that you all made towards regional development."

The Governor of Erongo, Neville Andre, emphasised that leadership is about accessibility, as this is the only way leaders can exchange views with the community on matters of mutual concern and join forces to address the challenges and needs of the community. 

"Through this office, the Constituency Councillor and staff thereof should be accessible to the community. This will ensure that the plight of the people will be attended to efficiently and effectively. This will help to develop the community's sense of ownership and enjoin them to actively participate in public affairs and chart the course of their development."