Kanime appointed as Paragon safety and security head

Former Windhoek City Police chief Abraham Kanime has been appointed as head of safety and security at Paragon Investment Holdings.

The announcement was made by Paragon executive director Desmond Amunyela yesterday.

Kanime retired from the City Police earlier this year.

Amunyela described Kanime’s appointment as testament to the company’s forward-thinking strategy.

“His unparalleled experience in law enforcement will undoubtedly set new benchmarks for our safety and security framework. As we step into the nuances of the digital age and artificial intelligence (AI), his vision will be instrumental in shaping a resilient and robust safety and security landscape, safeguarding our investments, stakeholders and workforce,” said Amunyela.

Amunyela said Kanime is on a one-year contract, conditional on how fast he develops younger understudy candidates.

“If, within a year, he can establish the department and take control, especially regarding the dangers and risks associated with the digital revolution and AI, he will relinquish that position to a younger person,” said Amunyela.

He said Kanime might stay on as long as the company requires his services.

Paragon Investment Holdings operates across multiple sectors in Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Amunyela further said the company has embarked on an aggressive outward strategy to expand into other countries in high-value and aviation-controlled environments.

“What is important is that the kind of growth we are rolling out heavily relies on systems, processes and technology. For that, one needs a robust security element that accompanies such a system so that one doesn’t need to be in all these countries to safeguard the business from risks,” he said.

Amunyela said more announcements are coming regarding the expertise required for this strategic foresight as the company transitions into a more modern and futuristic era.

Kanime welcomed the appointment, saying his commitment lies in establishing the safety and security department for the company.

“I am deeply honoured to be entrusted with this pivotal role at Paragon Investment Holdings. My commitment lies in sculpting a safety and security architecture in harmony with the company’s vision and values. Collaboratively, we will ensure a fortress of safety, propelling Paragon to even greater heights,” he said.

In August, the company took over ground handling operations at Hosea Kutako International Airport after a two-year court battle against the former handlers, Menzies Aviation Namibia.

Paragon Aviation recently received its RA3 certification from the United Kingdom Department of Transport, allowing Namibian and UK shippers to send cargo between the two countries.

Prior to that, it also received the same certification from the European Union (EU).