Opening the first Cabinet session of the year, the Head of State, who concentrated mainly on the economic and social achievements Government has made, rejected criticism from the new opposition party Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP), although he did not say so.

"Recently some criticisms were raised that our Government has lost vision for Namibia's development.

In my view, these claims do not hold water.

While we are ready to listen to the voices of our citizens, I must say that these criticisms lack sincerity and seriousness," Pohamba said.

Through their participation and input in the formulation of the country's development priorities, Namibians shaped its future course, he said.

"It is this vision of the Namibian people that we are determined to achieve through efficient delivery of public services and accountable governance.

I call upon all members of Cabinet to leave no stone unturned in our collective pursuit to alleviate the burden of poverty among our people," President Pohamba urged.

Reacting to the RDP's recent criticism of the education system, Pohamba said: "Contrary to what our detractors may say regarding the education sector, our Swapo Party Government is fully committed to improving the quality and access to education in our country."

An education reform process had started and the needs of Grade 10 and Grade 12 school leavers were being addressed through vocational training and "other measures", he said.

With regard to unemployment, Pohamba said: "We trust that the implementation of the new Labour Act which was signed into law (December 31) last year will lead to the improvement of working conditions as well as productivity in the country."

The President announced that the Minister of Agriculture and NamWater had been instructed to review water fees to make this commodity more affordable, especially for rural consumers.

The decisions of the Cabinet retreat held at Swakopmund in December 2005 would be reviewed in order to accelerate economic growth, Pohamba said in his opening speech at the Cabinet session.

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