Windhoek: The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security has intensified efforts to modernise services, strengthen border security, and expand access to national documents across Namibia, Minister Lucia Iipumbu said on Friday. Speaking during a Cabinet Committee Briefing, Iipumbu stated that the ministry continues to implement reforms aimed at improving public service delivery and national security.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the minister highlighted that the ministry issued 117,176 national identity documents and 126,737 birth certificates during 2025 to date. A key achievement mentioned was the national documentation programme targeting the San community, which led to the issuance of 22,690 national documents between 23 June and 30 August 2025, surpassing the initial target of 16,000.

The programme has enabled members of marginalised communities to access essential services such as social grants, healthcare, and education. Minister Iipumbu also announced preparations for the introduction of electronic identity documents (E-IDs) and digital IDs, expected to be launched in the 2026/2027 financial year, marking a significant step towards modernising identity management systems.

On migration management, the minister noted the successful repatriation of 985 Angolan nationals in collaboration with the Angolan government. An immigration amnesty declared in December 2025 allowed undocumented foreign nationals to return voluntarily to their home countries without arrest or prosecution.

In the realm of security, the Namibian Police Force conducted six national crime prevention operations across all 14 regions, and 1,779 cadet constables graduated and were deployed nationwide. Meanwhile, the Namibian Correctional Service continues to enhance rehabilitation programmes and food production, achieving N.dollars 22.6 million in agricultural output this year.

Minister Iipumbu reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to ensuring that every person in Namibia is registered, protected, and secured, and emphasized the ongoing efforts to strengthen institutions, modernise systems, and improve service delivery across the nation.