The Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Evelyn !Nawases-Taeyele has called on leaders at different levels to work in the best interest of and for the welfare of those they serve. 

!Nawases-Taeyele addressed the Annual General Meeting of the Namibia National Mayors' Forum, held at Swakopmund.

The National Mayors Forum serves as a vital platform for local government leadership, bringing together mayors from municipalities across Namibia to engage in key discussions on national issues, share best practices, and promote collaborative efforts to foster sustainable development at the local government level.

!Nawases-Taeyele said it is required of every leader to be attuned to and responsive to the needs of communities through smart partnerships and innovative ideas. 

"The fabric of any nation is woven from the aspirations and realities of its local communities. What are some of the realities in our country and the various local authority areas that we are responsible for as leaders and people who are in positions of trust? These are the prevalence of poverty, lack of or inadequate basic services, unequal access to affordable urban land and decent shelter, limited opportunities for employment, and self-help income generating activities, just to name but a few."

Swakopmund Mayor Dina Namubes said it is equally important that mayors are equipped with the right tools and skills to effectively serve their communities.

"I urge the Ministries and representing bodies to assist in empowering us by providing the necessary resources and support. This will enable us to deliver exceptional services to our respective communities and ensure that we meet the growing demands and expectations placed upon us as local leaders. Over the years we have observed that the efficient delivery of services is frequently hindered by bureaucratic processes, which in turn delay the development of key projects. In light of this, we would like to recommend that the government consider delegating more authority to local authorities."

Namubes further says that decentralisation would empower local governments to act swiftly and effectively in addressing community-specific needs, thereby accelerating development and improving the overall delivery of public services.

The chairperson of the Mayoral Forum, Trevino Forbes, stated that in an ever-evolving world, mayors must establish a robust culture of philanthropy.

"Philanthropy is not reserved for the well-off; it can manifest in many forms, from volunteering our time and skills to supporting local businesses. By fostering a spirit of giving and mutual support, we will not only uplift those in need but also enhance the social fabric of our communities. Let us embrace this responsibility collectively and inspire our citizens to participate actively in the improvement of their surroundings."