Swakopmund: Namibia's electricity distribution sector must embrace stronger governance, transparency, and customer-centred approaches to maintain public trust and ensure sustainability. This was the key message from the government, the Erongo RED board, and shareholders during the Erongo RED Shareholders' Summit held in Swakopmund on Monday.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industries, Mines, and Energy, Natangue Ithete, in a speech delivered on his behalf, urged Erongo RED's new board to prioritise customers and protect low-income households while ensuring efficiency. 'Complaints about high tariffs and cost of service are common. The correct response is not defensiveness, but rather open communication, simple tariff explanations, and visible improvements in service delivery,' said Ithete. He called for accelerated electrification projects, fair tariffs, and improved governance across the sector.
The meeting was convened to address shareholder concerns on governance, investment equity, and long-term direction. 'This summit is not a routine meeting; it is a deliberate and strategic response to key issues raised by our shareholders. We view sound governance not just as a regulatory obligation but as a business imperative,' said Erongo RED board deputy chairperson, Dr Martin Tjipita.
On behalf of shareholders, chairperson of the meeting Victoria Kapenda highlighted the need for openness, alignment, and foresight. 'Like any other shareholder in a company, we seek transparency. We expect a clear account of how the company has performed, what milestones have been achieved, what challenges have been encountered, and how management and the board are responding to them,' she said. She added that shareholders expect equitable investment across towns and inclusive access to electricity, stressing that past success alone does not guarantee future sustainability.
The summit brought together representatives from the government, local authorities, regulators, and shareholders to reflect on Erongo RED's 20-year journey and chart its future. Erongo Governor Natalia |Goagoses also stressed the critical link between reliable electricity supply and the region's role as Namibia's economic engine room. The governor commended Erongo RED's leadership for sound governance and urged stakeholders to use the summit as a forum to provide strategic insight to ensure the company remains sustainable to meet growing demands in the region.