Namibia’s public service workforce grows by 4%

Namibia’s public service workforce increased by 3.9% during the 2024/25 financial year, rising from 110 002 employees to 114 304.

This is despite ongoing structural and capacity challenges within the government.

Public Service Commission of Namibia chairperson Patrick Nandago on Monday said the figures reflect continued expansion in the public sector as the government seeks to meet service delivery demands.

“As per our records, the total number of government employees increased from 110 002 in the 2023/24 financial year to 114 304 in the 2024/25 financial year,” Nandago said.

He said the increase comes as the commission continues to oversee recruitment across ministries, offices and agencies, with emphasis on ensuring that suitably skilled and qualified individuals are brought into the public service.

The growth in workforce numbers occurs against a backdrop of structural challenges identified by the commission, including outdated organisational frameworks, limited operational resources and delays in administrative processes, he said.

Nandago said human resource structures across government institutions “are outdated and need to be reviewed to align themselves with realities on the ground, as well as service delivery expectations of our communities.”

He also flagged challenges related to non-responsive organisational structures and outdated legislation, which continue to affect efficiency and overall service delivery within the public sector.

Nandago said efforts are underway to address these constraints through reforms, including the review of policies and the strengthening of human resource systems across government institutions.

Despite the increase in staffing levels, Nandago said capacity gaps remain in certain areas, requiring continued focus on recruitment, training and workforce planning.

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