Former Mines and Energy Minister Tom Alweendo has launched his new book titled Systems Over Symbols: Rules, Records and Quiet Governance.
Launching the book, Alweendo called for stronger institutions and effective systems to guide Namibia's long-term development.
The book explores ethical leadership, institutional integrity and decision-making, warning public officials against bypassing established rules even when faced with pressure or persuasive arguments presented as being in the national interest.
Speaking at the launch, Alweendo said leadership should be measured by tangible results and lasting institutions rather than public recognition and symbolism.
The symbols of leadership are important, he noted, but they cannot build a nation on their own, adding that it is systems, discipline and institutions that deliver lasting progress.
The book recounts lessons from his career, including an early experience at the National Housing Enterprise where a lack of preparation during a board presentation taught him the importance of understanding issues thoroughly and admitting when one does not have all the answers.
"And the first lesson to say is, be prepared. And when you're not prepared, do not pretend that you are prepared, because you actually make a fool of yourself, because now people, the people who are asking questions, and most people are asking because they know the answer. It's not very often that people ask a question not knowing an answer. Somehow they got an idea what the answer should be," says Alweendo.
Alweendo also traces his values to his rural upbringing, saying childhood responsibilities taught him discipline, accountability and the importance of earning public trust.
He said while rules should evolve when they become outdated, leaders should follow proper processes to amend them rather than bending them for convenience.
"Because before I understood policy, before I understood what it means to be the governor of the Central Bank or to be a minister, I really understood responsibility. That's the first thing I understood as a child: that you are responsible. And before I knew the language of institutions, I knew that it's really about discipline even when doing ordinary tasks."
The book also reflects on Alweendo's more than 30 years in public service, covering his tenure at the Bank of Namibia, the National Planning Commission and the National Housing Enterprise.