Namibia's New NIDA Board Tasked with Revival and Turnaround

Namibia's Industrial Development Agency (NIDA) is facing significant challenges, with its business incubation facilities across the country operating at only 1-10% capacity. The newly appointed board, led by Thaddius Maswahu, has been tasked with reviving the troubled institution and restoring its industrial parks to functionality. The board members, including Mpasi Haingura, Aunie Gideon, Johny Smith, Tulimeyo Kaapanda, and Mennesia Vilho, were appointed by Industrialisation Minister Modestus Amutse.

Minister Amutse has challenged the new board to move swiftly to address NIDA's operational challenges, establish a clear picture of its financial position, and revive abandoned industrial facilities. He emphasized the significance of the responsibility facing the new board, stating that the country will be looking to them to turn around NIDA's fortunes. Amutse urged the board to be decisive, plan, and identify gaps in operations to restore the institution's functionality.

The appointments form part of a wider ministerial announcement of new boards for four state institutions: NIDA, the Namibia Competition Commission (NaCC), the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA), and the Namibia Estate Agents Board (NEAB). Minister Amutse called for stronger accountability and more effective oversight of the institutions, expressing concern that some boards were failing to meet regularly and fulfil their responsibilities.

Amutse emphasized the importance of understanding the law and mandate of each institution, with the board setting the direction and holding management accountable for results. He stressed that lack of accountability is a key failure, and that time frames and clear directives are essential. The minister also highlighted the need for BIPA to get its one-stop centre up and running, with online registrations expected to be implemented by February 2027.

The new NaCC board, chaired by Marvel Tjombonde, will be responsible for protecting fair competition and ensuring that decisions are fair. Amutse urged the board to protect the commission's independence, due process, and fairness, exercising careful judgement when market power could harm consumers. The NEAB, now chaired by Keuuavali Nashua, will focus on preparing for the imminent enforcement of the new act, passed in 2024.

Immanuel !Hanabeb, who retains his position as BIPA board chairperson, assured Minister Amutse that the board understands the responsibility that comes with their appointments. The minister emphasized the need for NEAB to be ready for the transition to the new act, ensuring that property practitioners are qualified, accountable, and operating under clear rules.

The new boards face significant challenges in reviving and turning around the institutions. With clear directives from Minister Amutse, the boards must work swiftly to restore functionality, establish accountability, and ensure effective oversight. The success of these institutions will depend on the boards' ability to work together, make decisive decisions, and prioritize the needs of the country.

Key points

• The new NIDA board, led by Thaddius Maswahu, must revive the agency's business incubation facilities, which are currently operating at 1-10% capacity.
• Minister Amutse emphasized the need for stronger accountability and more effective oversight of the institutions, expressing concern that some boards were failing to meet regularly and fulfil their responsibilities.
• The new boards for NIDA, NaCC, BIPA, and NEAB must work together to restore functionality, establish accountability, and ensure effective oversight.