"As per Regional Council Act, Regional Councillors are responsible for economic development, including the establishment of parks, playgrounds and recreational facilities."

In a speech read out by the Ministry's Permanent Secretary, Erastus Negongo, at the opening of a three-day induction workshop for Khomas and Erongo Regional Councillors at Walvis Bay yesterday, Kapaanda said the youth posed a serious challenge to councillors.

"I wish to remind you that the number of youth who took part in the last general elections was extremely high, and this presents a serious challenge to the Regional Council authorities because of the high demand for jobs and recreational facilities."

He called on councillors to be pro-active in initiating programmes and projects for the youth.

"The provision of these facilities will prevent our youth from frequenting cuca shops and beer halls."

The Minister reminded Councillors to serve those who elected them with humility and dedication.

He said the regions were political and economic pillars of the country in need of strong regional governments.

"In addition, NDP II and Vision 2030 will never be achieved if corruption, nepotism, tribalism and neglect of duties by Regional Councillors continue to be a hallmark of our Regional Councils. You should desist from all forms of corrupt practices and maladministration."

Asser Kapere, President of the Association of Regional Councils in Namibia (ARC), supported the Minister, saying "our commitment as elected Councillors to serve our communities and people must be unwavering and should promote and sustain ethical behaviour."

Samuel Nuuyoma, Erongo Regional Governor, said the purpose of the workshop was to acquaint participants with policies and laws and to build a solid relationship between political office bearers and administrators within the councils.

His counterpart from Khomas, Shaningwa Sophia Nahango, told The Namibian it was very important for the political office bearers and administrators to understand the rules and regulations "so we can go out and work from the same basics".

She said councillors should treat the Minister's speech as their Bible.

"His statements cut through everything."

The Walvis Bay workshop is one of six similar events being held throughout the country with the support of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

The workshops are attended by elected Regional Councillors, chief regional officers, directors, deputy directors and heads of settlements of all 13 regions.

The Minister and his deputy each opened a workshop at Oshakati and Tsumeb yesterday.

The last three workshops will start on Monday at Keetmanshoop, Ondangwa and Rundu.

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