Mines and energy minister Tom Alweendo told the newly appointed eight National Energy Council members that people with the power to change the status quo for the better are scared of being held accountable.
Alweendo said that to effect change, decisions must be made, requiring accountability.
“Accountability is nothing to fear when you are working for the greater good, particularly in a position like yours, which was created to assist and develop the energy sector in Namibia.
“Do not undermine yourself or the power vested in you,” Alweendo said.
John Titus, the director of energy in the mines ministry, will chair the council, with trade ministry executive director Michael Humavindu deputising.
Other members are Sem Kadhikwa from the works ministry, Helvi Fillipus from the finance ministry, Maria Amakali from the agriculture ministry, Anna Shatika from the National Planning Commission, Zoe Nambahu from NamPower and Bertus Eksteen from TransNamib.
Alweendo appointed them in terms of section 12 (1) of the Petroleum Products and Energy Act (Act No. 13 of 1990.
The members are nominated by their respective institutions for recommendation to the mines and energy minister and appointed by the President for three years.
The National Energy Council’s function is to recommend the effective, efficient administration of the National Energy Fund.
The council also advises the minister on the National Energy Fund investment policies and approves funding to agencies.
Additionally, the council recommends to the minister any amendments to the Petroleum Products and Energy Act or any regulation to be made under the Act.
The council also recommends to the minister whether to increase petroleum levies.
