Namibian Parliamentarians Embark on Induction and Orientation Seminar

Members of the National Assembly in Namibia commenced a week-long induction and orientation seminar in Swakopmund, aimed at familiarizing first-time lawmakers with their roles, including parliamentary protocol, diplomacy, and etiquette. The comprehensive workshop will cover various topics such as the laws and operations of the Namibian Parliament, the role of Parliament in the ratification process of international agreements and conventions, and the operations of government offices, ministries, and agencies. Heads of government agencies will make presentations, and lawmakers will be introduced to the role of the Ministry of Justice in the formulation of legislations and the responsibility of Parliament in the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy.

Key Takeaways:

• The induction and orientation seminar, taking place in Swakopmund, is designed to equip Members of Parliament (MPs) with an understanding of the intricacies of bicameralism, the importance of budget oversight, and the art of diplomacy.
• The seminar will cover various topics, including parliamentary protocol, diplomacy, and etiquette, laws and operations of the Namibian Parliament, and the role of Parliament in the ratification process of international agreements and conventions.
• Heads of government agencies, including the Namibia Revenue Agency, Bank of Namibia, Electoral Commission of Namibia, Namibia Central Intelligence Service, and the Anti-Corruption Commission, will make presentations.
• The role of the Ministry of Justice in the formulation of legislations and the responsibility of Parliament in the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy will also be covered.
• Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Phillip Katamelo, emphasized the importance of ensuring a stable political disbursement and a responsive system of government, highlighting the role of Parliament in influencing government policies and overseeing key governance processes.
• Erongo Governor, Neville Andre, underscored the vital role of lawmakers in representing the people and fulfilling their responsibilities as a bridge between the public and the policymaking process.
• The seminar will run for four days, providing a comprehensive introduction to the operations of government and Parliament for first-time lawmakers.

Statistics:

• The induction and orientation seminar will be held for four days.
• The seminar will cover various topics to equip lawmakers with an understanding of parliamentary protocol, diplomacy, and etiquette.
• Heads of 6 government agencies will make presentations during the seminar.
• 1 Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly and 1 Erongo Governor will address the MPs.
• The seminar aims to support the government in improving the credibility and predictability, control and transparency in its management.

Sources:

• NAMPA
• Philip Katamelo, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly
• Neville Andre, Erongo Governor