The public policy implementation quagmire in Namibia: Contemporary impediments and solutions

Abstract

Namibia has long been praised for its excellent public policies. However, these public policies are diminished in value by implementation impediments that hinder achieving goals like service delivery and development. This presents a public policy implementation quagmire. However, it remains unclear which impediments currently thwart public policy implementation in Namibia. Research has yet to systematically investigate, consolidate, and produce a contemporary analysis of these impediments and solutions. This is important due to evolving challenges from globalization and population growth. Therefore, this study provides a contemporary analysis of key public policy implementation impediments and solutions in Namibia. The study follows a qualitative methodology, using secondary data and theoretical frameworks (Top-Down and Bottom-Up models, institutional and political economy theories, administrative capacity, and participatory governance), applied through deduction and interpretivism. Data analysis included data familiarization, coding, theme identification, and interpretation. The study found that implementation impediments stem from political, institutional, economic, and social factors. Issues such as inconsistent political will, limited institutional capacity, poor resource distribution, and lack of community involvement contribute to the implementation gap. The study proposes reinforcing institutions, improving intergovernmental collaboration, ensuring political dedication, and promoting public participation to strengthen policy implementation, advance sustainable developmental goals, and foster inclusive growth.