The Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) has reappointed Alex Shimuafeni as Statistician-General for a new five-year term, extending his contract until 2031. This decision, made in line with the NSA Succession Planning Policy and Section 23 of the Statistics Act, ensures Shimuafeni's continued leadership of the country's central data authority. His reappointment was approved by the government, marking a significant moment for the agency.
Shimuafeni has been leading the NSA for a decade, initially taking office on 1 April 2016. His first term concluded in March 2021, followed by a second five-year term that was set to expire in March 2026. Before the recent reappointment, the board had granted a short-term extension to 30 September 2026 to allow for long-term planning. This extension provided the necessary time for the board to finalize the reappointment process.
The NSA Board chairperson, Justice Tjituka, expressed full confidence in Shimuafeni's leadership abilities. Tjituka highlighted the successful execution of the 2023 Population and Housing Census and the publication of thematic reports between 2024 and 2026 as major achievements during Shimuafeni's tenure. These milestones underscore Shimuafeni's capacity to lead the agency through significant projects.
The reappointment of Shimuafeni comes at a critical time for the NSA, which is currently in the fourth year of its 2022–2027 Strategic Plan. As the agency moves forward, Shimuafeni will be tasked with developing and launching the upcoming 2027–2032 Strategic Plan. This new plan will be closely aligned with Namibia's Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), ensuring that the NSA's goals support the country's broader development objectives.
According to the NSA board, Shimuafeni's focus will be on guiding the National Statistical System toward data-driven economic development. He will also work on robust statistical governance and evidence-based planning to accelerate decentralization and regional development across Namibia's 14 regions. This approach aims to enhance the use of data in decision-making processes at both national and regional levels.
Shimuafeni's reappointment is seen as a strategic move to maintain stability and continuity within the NSA. His experience and leadership skills are expected to drive the agency's efforts in producing high-quality data and statistics. This, in turn, will support informed decision-making across various sectors of the Namibian economy and government.
As Shimuafeni begins his new term, the NSA is poised to continue its critical role in providing data that informs economic and social policies. With a clear focus on strategic planning and statistical governance, the agency is set to contribute significantly to Namibia's development goals. The reappointment of Shimuafeni reflects the board's confidence in his ability to lead the NSA through its next phase of growth and development.
Key points
- Alex Shimuafeni has been reappointed as Statistician-General of the Namibia Statistics Agency for a new five-year term.
- Shimuafeni's reappointment aims to maintain stability and continuity within the NSA.
- He will focus on guiding the National Statistical System toward data-driven economic development and robust statistical governance.
