Strengthening Legal Expertise for Effective Governance
Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations Hosts High-Level Training Workshop with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Support
With the support of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, the Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations will host a five-day, high-level, interactive, and practice-oriented in-house training workshop from 18 to 22 May 2026. The workshop will be facilitated by a legal expert with a background in constitutional law and will bring together 14 legislative drafters and 6 researchers from the Legislative Drafting and Law Reform, Policy, and Legislation Directorates. The training is designed to strengthen participants’ knowledge and practical skills in key areas, including administrative law, constitutional law, statutory and constitutional interpretation, and legal writing. Through a hands-on and collaborative approach, the workshop aims to enhance the quality and effectiveness of legislative processes within the Ministry. This initiative forms part of a broader series of interventions aimed at reinforcing the rule of law in Namibia. By building internal capacity and promoting sustainable management and operational practices, the programme contributes to improving service delivery to the public and strengthening engagement with key stakeholders over the long term.
Strengthening Leadership and Strategy: PDM and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Convene Indaba in Otjiwarongo
Three-day engagement brings together party leaders and councillors to advance policy dialogue and governance innovation
Konrad Adenauer Stiftung is joining the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) of Namibia in Otjiwarongo for a three-day indaba that is focusing on advancing policy discussions, refining strategic direction, and deepening ideological reflection. The engagement is bringing together 38 party leaders and local councillors, creating a collaborative platform that is strengthening leadership capacity and enhancing the party’s effectiveness in governance. Participants are engaging in dialogue and are exploring practical approaches to addressing both national and local challenges. Party President McHenry Venaani is underscoring the importance of strategic thinking and adaptability in today’s evolving political landscape. He is highlighting the need for innovative approaches to governance that are shaping effective leadership and deepening community impact. The indaba is marking an important step in reinforcing institutional capacity and is aligning the party’s vision with the evolving needs and aspirations of the communities it is serving.
ECSO Project Conducts Monitoring and Mentoring Visits in Erongo Region
CSOs report strengthened structures and progress after two years of capacity building
The ECSO project team conducted monitoring and mentoring visits to target group 1 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the Erongo region from 24–27 March 2026. These organisations have been actively participating in the project’s activities over the past two years. The visits provided an opportunity to assess the progress made by the CSOs over the past two and a half years. Through direct engagement, the team reviewed organisational development, programme implementation, and the overall impact of the project’s support. Many CSOs reported significant improvements in their organisational structures and day-to-day activities, attributing these positive changes to the capacity-building initiatives delivered through the ECSO project.
KAS supports National Council induction workshop for effective parliamentary performance
Strengthening Leadership and Governance Capacity
24–26 March 2026, the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) joined Members of the National Council (MPs) for an Induction Workshop aimed at strengthening their capacity to effectively carry out their roles. Over the course of the programme, participants explored the critical functions of key parliamentary committees, including the Rules, Orders and Business Committee (ROBC) and the Implementation and Coordination Committee (ICC). These sessions provided valuable insights into legislative processes, coordination mechanisms, and the overall functioning of the National Council. Members were also introduced to essential tools and frameworks for Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), as well as the National Council’s budgeting processes—key components for ensuring accountability, transparency, and effective oversight. In addition to technical knowledge, the induction placed strong emphasis on personal development. A dedicated session on leadership and emotional intelligence equipped MPs with practical skills to enhance decision-making, communication, and collaboration throughout their tenure. This initiative forms part of KAS’ ongoing mandate as a development partner to support good governance, strengthen democratic institutions, and promote effective and responsible leadership in Namibia.
Bringing the Constitution Closer to the People
UNAM pop-up event showcases the power of digital access and active citizenship
KAS Namibia-Angola Office proudly hosted an engaging pre-independence pop-up event at the University of Namibia Main Campus, showcasing the Namibian Constitution Mobile App a powerful step toward making our supreme law accessible to every Namibian, anytime and anywhere. In partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, Mindsinaction STEAM Centre, the University of Namibia’s School of Law, and the UNAM Law Association of Mooting and Advocacy (LAMA), students and lecturers came together to explore how technology can deepen constitutional awareness and strengthen active citizenship. Adding to the excitement, UNAM Radio 97.4 FM joined us live on air, capturing the energy of the event through interviews, student interactions, and real-time conversations about why understanding your constitution matters. From interactive demos to lively discussions on rights, laws, and digital access, the event transformed civic education into an engaging experience. Attendees enjoyed quizzes, won exciting prizes, and received informative publications—proving that learning about your rights can be both empowering and enjoyable. Your Constitution. Your Right. Your Power. Now live, interactive, and in your pocket.
Strengthening Democratic Institutions in Action
KAS supports National Council induction session in Swakopmund
The Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) joined the official opening of the National Council induction session in Swakopmund, held from 16–20 March 2026, bringing together all 42 Members of Parliament for this important engagement. The induction session serves as a key platform to equip Members of the National Council with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively carry out their legislative responsibilities. It also provides an opportunity to strengthen collaboration, deepen understanding of governance processes, and reinforce the role of the Council within Namibia’s democratic framework. Speaking on behalf of KAS Office Director, Mrs. Anna Hoffmann-Kwanga, Dr. Dennis Zaire highlighted the vital role of the National Council of the Republic of Namibia in promoting accountability and transparency. He emphasized its responsibility in ensuring effective executive oversight, reviewing legislation, and bridging the gap between policy formulation and citizen engagement at regional and national levels. Dr. Zaire further noted that strong democratic institutions are essential for sustainable development, and that platforms such as this induction play a crucial role in empowering public representatives to serve their constituencies effectively. KAS remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen democratic governance, enhance institutional capacity, and promote active participation in Namibia’s political and civic processes.
Monitoring Impact: Advancing Gender Equality in the “O” Regions
Assessment highlights progress in leadership, awareness, and community wellbeing
From 9–12 March, KAS Namibia Angola conducted a Monitoring & Evaluation trip to assess the impact of activities implemented by our partner, Women’s Action for Development (WAD), across the four “O” regions. In Oshakati, a Gender-Based Violence (GBV) training with men in uniform proved highly impactful, reaching 30 participants. The session was well received, with attendees calling for more trainings to further capacitate members of their institutions and communities. During our visit to the Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority, we observed significant progress driven by targeted training initiatives. Sessions covering gender issues, the Namibian Constitution, the Traditional Authorities Act, and the Communal Land Reform Act have contributed to a notable increase in women’s representation in leadership—from 22 to 43 members. These efforts have also played a role in reducing community disputes, demonstrating the broader social value of legal and civic education. Engagements with local leadership further reinforced these outcomes. Onesi Constituency Councillor, Mr. Festus Petrus, highlighted the positive ripple effects of GBV trainings conducted with men and boys. These include a reduction in suicide rates and crime, improved awareness of human rights, and the creation of employment opportunities through WAD-led capacity-building initiatives. This Monitoring & Evaluation visit underscores the importance of sustained community engagement and partnerships in driving meaningful social change. It also reaffirms the value of investing in gender equality, education, and local leadership as key pillars for inclusive development.
//Kharas Region: ECSO Project Workshops in Keetmanshoop (24–27 February 2026)
Building stronger CSOs, healthier communities, and more sustainable local businesses through digital skills and dialogue
//Kharas Region: ECSO Project Workshops in Keetmanshoop (24–27 February 2026) The ECSO Project will host a series of workshops in Keetmanshoop from 24–27 February 2026, aimed at strengthening the knowledge and skills of project beneficiaries. On 24 February 2026, the 5th CSO Meeting will take place under the theme “Social Media and Cyber Security Use as a CSO.” The session will focus on helping CSOs improve their use of social media to increase visibility for their organisations and activities, while also highlighting the importance of strong cyber security practices in their work. On 25 February 2026, the project will hold the 3rd Community Dialogue on “Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.” This dialogue will bring together stakeholders, CSO members, and community members to address a key challenge currently affecting the community. From 26–27 February 2026, the 3rd Economic Strengthening Workshop will be hosted under the theme “Digital Marketing for Business Promotion.” This workshop will support business owners in learning how to promote their businesses effectively across various social media platforms, with the goal of improving sustainability and growth.
ECSO Capacity Building Workshops in Kunene Region
Outjo | 17–20 February 2026
The ECSO project will be hosting the following workshops in Outjo targeted at expanding the knowledge of project beneficiaries. These activities will be taking place the week of 17 – 20 February 2026. The fifth CSO meeting taking place 17 February 2026, will focus on the topic “Social Media and Cyber Security use as a CSO”, these topics will specifically focus on improving CSOs capacity on using social media to bring visibility to their organisations and activities as well as the importance of cyber security provisions in their work. The third Community Dialogue taking place 18 February 2026 focusing on bringing together stakeholders, CSO members and members of the community on the topic “Mental Health and Suicide Prevention” in an effort to address this very specific challenge experienced in their community. The third Economic Strengthening Workshop taking place 19 – 20 February 2026, on the topic “Digital Marketing for business promotion”. Focusing on business owners’ promotion of their businesses on various social media platforms to grow their businesses and become more sustainable.
ECSO Project Concludes Impactful Engagements in Erongo Region
Strengthening Civil Society, Promoting Mental Health Awareness, and Empowering Local Entrepreneurs in the Erongo Region (10–13 February 2026)
From 10–13 February 2026, the ECSO Project successfully hosted a series of impactful engagements in the Erongo Region, marking the conclusion of key activities under the initiative. The week featured the 5th and final CSO Meeting, the 3rd Community Dialogue, and the 3rd Economic Strengthening Workshop, bringing together civil society representatives, community members, and local entrepreneurs. On Tuesday, 10 February, 18 CSO representatives convened for the final CSO Meeting under the theme “Social Media Use and Cyber Security for CSOs.” The session emphasized the importance of strategically using social media platforms to promote advocacy campaigns, while safeguarding organizational data and strengthening cyber security practices. The following day, Wednesday, 11 February, 36 participants—including civil society actors, community members, and key stakeholders—attended the 3rd and final Community Dialogue. The discussion focused on “Mental Health and Suicide Prevention,” highlighting mental health as a critical social issue affecting communities across the Erongo Region. Participants engaged in meaningful dialogue aimed at raising awareness, reducing stigma, and strengthening collective responses to mental health challenges.
Strengthening CSOs Through Social Media and Cyber Security in Erongo Region
A CSO-focused workshop taking place in Swakopmund on 10 February 2026
The ECSO project will be hosting the following workshops in Swakopmund targeted at expanding the knowledge of project beneficiaries. These activities will be taking place the week of 10 – 13 February 2026. The fifth CSO meeting taking place 10 February 2026, will focus on the topic “Social Media and Cyber Security use as a CSO”, these topics will specifically focus on improving CSOs capacity on using social media to bring visibility to their organisations and activities as well as the importance of cyber security provisions in their work. The third Community Dialogue taking place 11 February 2026 focusing on bringing together stakeholders, CSO members and members of the community on the topic “Mental Health and Suicide Prevention” in an effort to address this very specific challenge experienced in their community. The third Economic Strengthening Workshop taking place 12 – 13 February 2026, on the topic “Digital Marketing for business promotion”. Focusing on business owners’ promotion of their businesses on various social media platforms to grow their businesses and become more sustainable.
