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When I joined the City of Windhoek as the Head of Passenger Transport Regulation in 2007, I was immediately faced with the challenges of a city struggling with inadequate public transport infrastructure, limited budgets, and a faltering bus service. Privatizing the public bus transport service was being considered as a potential solution to address these issues.
During the initial two years, my responsibilities expanded beyond the scope of my employment contract as assigned by the division head. It was a period of personal and professional growth, where I, as a specialist economist in transport economics, found immense joy and satisfaction in the opportunities given to me as a young professional.
What made it particularly remarkable was that, at the time, I had no prior knowledge or experience in public service delivery. The concept of delivering services to the public had never crossed my mind, nor had I ever read about it. However, my sole focus was on creating immediate and tangible benefits in the lives of the citizens of Windhoek.
I seldom missed a day of work, often waking up as early as 4 or 5 in the morning to conduct random bus inspections, which was before the advent of electronic ticketing technology. During those inspections, I found myself doing tasks that were typically assigned to the Head of Bus Operations, a position that had been vacant for approximately three years until the end of 2009. This included inspecting bus stop shelters, exerting pressure on the advertising company to repair or replace shelters where needed, and conducting feasibility analyses for the replacement of the bus fleet.
Our relentless efforts paid off when we managed to convince the City leaders and the Ministry of Transport to allocate funding for expanding the bus service coverage in Windhoek. In many early morning sessions, I personally conducted surveys alone to determine the true demand for public transport bus services. The flourishing state of the public transport division during my time with the City, spanning approximately four years, is well-known among the bus drivers who still remember me to this day.
Reflecting on my consistent achievements, I attribute them to a few key principles. Firstly, I approached every task with the mindset that I knew nothing and needed to understand the objectives and requirements clearly. Secondly, I diligently sought ways to achieve those goals, undeterred by limited budgets. I learned to work with the resources at hand, striving for efficiency—a fundamental principle in economics.
However, the most important lesson I learned was the significance of listening. It became evident that intelligence, degrees, and positions mean little if we don't listen to the people and truly understand their needs. Many nights were spent attending management council meetings, where I reported on progress and proposed solutions. Taking personal responsibility for ensuring citizen satisfaction became my guiding principle, and I refused to make excuses. Unfortunately, after my departure, the service experienced a decline.
Through my experiences, I emphasize the importance of electing individuals into positions of power based on their commitment to improving the lives of the people. A spirit of dedicated service, combined with a thirst for knowledge and a genuine understanding of people's needs and desires, is crucial. It is essential to immerse ourselves in their daily experiences to construct feasible plans within the available means. This approach is the key to creating a flourishing society and ensuring the happiness of its people.
Above all, integrity is paramount. There should be no desire for unlawful or illegal financial enrichment in carrying out our functions. To our leaders, I challenge you to adopt this approach for three months and witness the amazing results—the support and following you will generate.
As of now, I am a law student, having completed a B Com Law degree and currently pursuing an LLB Hons and a master's in Transport Economics. I quietly provide individual and business consulting and advisory services through my small consulting firm, Amir Consulting Services CC, with the ultimate aim of making Namibia better one day at a time.
By John Saunderson - Amir Consulting Services CC - amirconsults02@gmail.com
Julia Rwigamba is a vibrant content creator, blogger, and transport and logistics enthusiast. With a passion for creating engaging and informative content.
Julia's content covers a wide range of topics, including the latest advancements in transportation technology, sustainable logistics practices, and the impact of globalization on supply chains.
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Source: Namibian Economist - Click Here >>>
June 13, 2023
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