As Mr. Etienne Maritz concludes his distinguished tenure as Executive Director of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS), it is fitting to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of a public servant whose leadership continues to shape the institution and strengthen public faith in government service. Far more than a steward of administrative processes, Mr. Maritz is a reformer transforming MHAISS into a model of efficiency, innovation, and people-centred service delivery. His tenure stands out not merely for policy shifts or systems upgrades, but for a profound cultural change that impacts both the institution and the people it serves.

A legacy of systemic change
Perhaps the most striking testament to his leadership is the dramatic reduction in turnaround times for national documents. What once took months is now delivered in under five working days. This leap in efficiency is more than a statistic, it reflects an institution realigned with the daily realities of ordinary Namibians. Mr. Maritz’s leadership is always guided by solutions. Never content with the status quo, he constantly seeks ways to improve service delivery within the Ministry. He actively promotes innovation, supports digital transformation, and champions the expansion of mobile outreach services to ensure that even the most remote communities have access to Home Affairs services.

Reimagining institutional culture
Under his guidance, the Ministry experienced a cultural shift. Where once MHAISS was associated with long queues, administrative delays, and poor service, it is now recognized as one of the most improved and professional public institutions in the country. This transformation is the result of deliberate efforts to build a culture of excellent service, powered by consistent leadership, strengthened accountability frameworks; and a renewed emphasis on customer service, courtesy, and professionalism, both internally and externally.

Leading regional integration and inspiring Africa
Mr. Maritz’s leadership also extends beyond Namibia’s borders. Under his administration, several border posts transitioned to 24-hour operations, streamlining trade and enhancing regional mobility. His role in advancing cross-border diplomacy culminates in a landmark agreement with Botswana, which now allows Namibians to travel using only their national ID cards. These achievements highlight a strategic vision that positions the Ministry not just as a national service provider, but also as a regional leader in border reform and integration. 

We are proud to be a trendsetter in public service delivery, and it is thanks to the visionary leadership of Mr. Etienne Maritz that we have reached this point. As a ministry, we now set the standard for excellence, with several African countries visiting us to benchmark and learn from our innovations. His transformative leadership has positioned us as a model for effective, people-centred governance across the continent.

A leader of vision and integrity
What continues to define Mr. Maritz is not only his strategic insight but also his unwavering integrity and commitment to public service. He remains approachable yet firm, visionary yet grounded in practical solutions. He challenges the status quo and proves that real transformation is achievable, even within the complex structures of the public sector.
On behalf of myself, and many others across the Ministry who share this sentiment, I extend heartfelt appreciation for his leadership. Mr. Maritz is an epitome of what it means to lead with purpose, professionalism, and public spirit in our civil service.

Thank you, Mr. Maritz
We thank you, not only for the reforms and innovations, but for restoring pride in our work and trust in our institution. You have shown that public servants can be agents of transformation. The legacy you build is not only reflected in policy or systems but lives on in the renewed spirit of service that now defines MHAISS.

Your impact is far-reaching. Your leadership journey continues to inspire.

By Lavinia Haimbondi, an employee of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security