The Public Service Commission Chairperson, Salmaan Jacobs, has called on public servants to uphold the principles of good governance and strengthen the public administration effectiveness to enhance service delivery.

He made the call during the commission's courtesy visit to the Hardap Regional Council in Mariental.

The Public Service Commission's visit aims to share ideas on best practices for enhancing service delivery and to review HR audit findings.

"Good governance is more than a political slogan, it is the life blood of effective public service. It demands transparency in decision-making, accountability in actions taken and resources used, responsiveness to the needs of our citizens and equity and fairness in service delivery. Sound public administration ensures that policies are translated into real positive impacts on the lives of Namibians."

Jacobs furthermore urged them to keep pace with the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

"Automation and digital platforms are not only tools for efficiency. They are enablers of transparency, speed and accountability. They reduce bureaucracy and cut down on delays and allow services to reach even the most remote communities in our regions. As public servants, we must embrace the E-Governance platform for faster paperless service, upgrade our skills to remain relevant and effective and support innovation that improves service delivery for citizens."

The Commission's chair also thanked the civil servants for their dedication in serving the public.

The Acting Chairperson of the Hardap Regional Council, Salomon Boois, commended the commission's visit.

"Don't see them as inspectors or as investigators. No, let us use the opportunity and share our best practices, our practical experiences in different departments and organisations. Only then can we give the Public Service Commission proper information so that they make informed decisions."

A Suicide Prevention Task Force also engaged civil servants on suicide awareness and prevention on the occasion.