Windhoek: Newly appointed Chief of Protocol, Ambassador Bonny Dumeni Haufiku, has described his new assignment, which includes coordinating the president's engagements and safeguarding Namibia's diplomatic image, as both important and challenging.

According to Namibia Press Agency, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah appointed Ambassador Haufiku, a seasoned diplomat, to the post effective 01 November 2025. The Presidency last week said his appointment underscores Namibia's commitment to maintaining professionalism and excellence in international relations.

Haufiku mentioned to Nampa on Wednesday that his new position comes with significant responsibility as it involves managing the State's and the President's official programmes. He emphasized the challenges inherent in his role, noting the importance of carrying out the State's and President's programmes through his office to ensure proper coordination.

He stated that all official travels and engagements involving the Head of State must be channelled through his office. 'All those who want to see the President, both internal or outside the country, have to go through our office,' he added.

Haufiku also pointed out that his responsibilities extend to overseeing national events and international conferences involving heads of state and external partners. He highlighted his involvement in organizing meetings for state anniversaries, international conferences, and summits.

Further elaborating on his duties, Haufiku noted the meticulous planning required when the Head of State attends other meetings, ensuring that a competent team is in place. His office is also tasked with visa clearance for both local officials and foreign government officials meeting the president, ministers, or attending conferences.

As a former Namibian Ambassador to Finland and Estonia, Haufiku brings extensive experience in international relations, bilateral cooperation, and multilateral diplomacy. His appointment, according to the Presidency, is expected to strengthen Namibia's diplomatic presence and ensure that all official engagements maintain the nation's high standards of protocol and decorum.