Chairperson of the National Council Lukas Muha says council members need to champion inclusivity, while regional councils are expected to ensure that development initiatives take shape.

Muha made these remarks when officially opening a four-day National Council and Regional Councils Consultative Conference underway in Otjiwarongo.

Muha says the conference will serve as a platform where both national and regional councils are to exchange perspectives, harmonise approaches, and strengthen collaboration for the betterment of the country.

"Public participation and responsive service delivery are cornerstones of our democracy. By engaging our citizens, listening to their concerns, and incorporating their aspirations, we build trust and legitimacy in our institutions. Inclusive development requires policies that are people-centred, and it is our duty to ensure that legislation and regional programmes reflect these commitments."

Muha said council members will also deliberate on the empowerment of Junior National Council members and prospects for Junior Regional Councils, regional development reports and progress. 

"This joint conference is not merely a meeting; it is a partnership. By pulling our expertise and resources together, we can amplify our effectiveness and deliver tangible results for our people. As we embark on our deliberations, let us remain focused on our shared vision of a prosperous Namibia."

Also to be discussed is the advancement of social economic growth and conditions that hamper councillors from implementing development.

Otjozondjupa Regional Council Chairperson Paulus Nekundi emphasised the importance of decentralisation of services to the regions.

"Decentralisation is a good thing, but we must make sure that once we decentralise services to the communities, the resources are also decentralised. It cannot be centralised because at the end of the day we are not delivering services; we are not going to address the issue of job creation or the issue of infrastructure development. If we do, we have these two separated commodities."

This is the 3rd consultative conference, which is also being attended by development stakeholders, chief executive officers and traditional leaders.