Windhoek: The Namibia Statistics Agency's (NSA) Board of Directors has extended the contract of Statistician-General, Alex Shimuafeni, by six months to allow him to complete key institutional projects and ensure a smooth leadership transition. In a media statement issued on Tuesday, the board announced that Shimuafeni's contract, originally set to expire on 31 March 2026, will now extend until 30 September 2026.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the board stated, "The board resolved to extend the Statistician-General's contract from 31 March 2026 until 30 September 2026 to allow him to oversee the completion of key institutional projects and facilitate an orderly handover." Shimuafeni was initially appointed to lead the national statistics agency on 01 April 2016 for a five-year term ending on 31 March 2021. His contract was later renewed for a second term from 01 April 2021 to 31 March 2026.

The board noted that the appointment of the Statistician-General is governed by Section 23 of the Statistics Act No. 9 of 2011. This act requires the board, with the approval of the Director General of the National Planning Commission, to appoint a suitably qualified individual with expertise in statistics, information technology, economics, and related fields.

Meanwhile, the contract of Deputy Statistician-General Ottilie Mwazi, who reached retirement age on 31 December 2025, was extended from 01 January 2026 to 31 March 2026. This extension is to allow for the completion of ongoing projects and ensure a seamless transition. The board mentioned that the recruitment process for the Deputy Statistician-General has already commenced and is at an advanced stage.