In a decisive move to restore stability to a crucial portfolio, Namibia’s President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has appointed veteran corporate leader Ingenesia Inge Zaamwani as the new Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform. The appointment, made on Wednesday, sees Zaamwani replace Mac-Albert Hengari, who was unceremoniously removed last month following his arrest on a slew of serious charges.
Zaamwani, a name synonymous with boardroom prowess in Namibia, brings a formidable track record to the table. Her distinguished career spans key roles in the mining sector, financial services, and government. Most notably, she previously served as the managing director of the diamond mining giant Namdeb, and chaired the board of First National Bank of Namibia, among other prominent positions. Prior to this latest ministerial posting, Zaamwani was a Special Advisor to the President on Constitutional Affairs and Private Sector Interface – a role that speaks to her deep understanding of both statecraft and economic drivers.
A statement from the presidency lauded Zaamwani’s “wealth of experience and expertise,” expressing confidence that her administrative, industry, and leadership acumen would “unlock opportunities for value-addition, job creation and food security in the sectors under her portfolio.” Her appointment also includes a non-voting seat in parliament, underscoring the significance of her new role.
The reshuffle comes as the Namibian government grapples with the fallout from the charges against Zaamwani’s predecessor, Mac-Albert Hengari. Appointed in March, Hengari is currently facing an investigation into multiple charges, including rape, gender-based violence, and kidnapping. He appeared in court on April 28 for a charge of obstructing justice, a case in which he and a 30-year-old co-defendant are scheduled to appear again on June 3.
Police reports following Hengari’s arrest suggest his co-defendant is related to a now 21-year-old woman who Hengari allegedly raped when she was 16. It is further alleged that Hengari attempted to bribe the woman to withdraw the case – a shocking development that sent ripples through the political landscape and necessitated swift action from the highest office.
Zaamwani’s appointment is seen as a calculated move by President Nandi-Ndaitwah to inject not only experience but also a much-needed sense of integrity into a ministry vital to the nation’s development and food security. Her proven ability to navigate complex corporate environments and her long-standing relationship with the presidency are expected to bring a steady hand to a portfolio recently rocked by scandal.
