Iipumbu warns border failures are eroding public trust

Patience Makwele Inconsistent decision-making, weak discipline and communication failures within the security cluster are eroding public trust in Namibia’s frontline services, minister of home affairs, immigration, safety and security Lucia Iipumbu has warned. Iipumbu made the remarks during a regional ministerial staff meeting in Katima Mulilo on Friday as part of a two-day working visit to inspect border posts and ministry projects in the Zambezi region. The meeting brought together officials from Immigration, the Namibian Police Force (Nampol) and the Namibian Correctional Service (NCS).

She described the Zambezi region as both strategic and vulnerable and said officers responsible for border security and law enforcement carry a critical responsibility. “You are expected to protect the borders of the republic, uphold the law, detect irregularities, prevent crime and maintain internal security. This is not an easy responsibility, but it is a noble one.

You are not merely operating offices, border posts, police stations and service points. You are helping to secure the republic. You are helping to protect communities,” she said.

Iipumbu said she understands the challenges faced by officers in the region, including long distances, remote communities, seasonal flooding and strong social and economic ties across borders. She also acknowledged that many officers work under pressure and with limited resources. “I am aware that the Zambezi region faces real operational challenges.