President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration is a milestone signalling a new era for Namibia.
Her rise to the Presidency was unsurprising given her decades-long career in public service, marked by pivotal roles in government and diplomacy that have equipped her with the skill and resilience to lead.
Nandi-Ndaitwah campaigned on equal opportunity and economic transformation. As she assumes office, it is critical that her government tackles unemployment, poverty and inequality to realise those commitments.
These challenges have plagued Namibia for centuries, preventing the country from realising its full potential despite its abundant natural resources and democratic progress.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s presidential vision emphasised inclusion, job creation and empowering local Namibians to benefit from the country’s riches.
Quality education, skills training and the development of sectors that can absorb young people into the workforce must be a priority.
The government can partner with the private sector to create a climate conducive to sustainable job creation, while also investing in sectors like agriculture, tourism and technology that have the potential to drive economic growth.
According to the Namibia Statistics Agency, over 40% of Namibia’s population live in multidimensional poverty, which considers deprivations beyond income, including education, health and living standards.
Targeted interventions in social welfare programmes, housing, healthcare and education are essential to bridge inequality.
A commitment to nation-building is grounded in the values of inclusion, equality and unity.
The president’s inauguration – backed by a Cabinet with significant female representation – speaks to the broader vision of a government that actively promotes gender equality and the empowerment of marginalised groups.
The president’s commitment to creating a more inclusive Namibia means that every citizen, from rural farmers to urban entrepreneurs, should feel valued, seen and heard.
There is no better time than now to address disparities with policies that focus on equal access to resources, opportunities and services.
Nandi-Ndaitwah’s government must ensure that rural communities are not left behind in the drive for national development.
As Namibia’s fifth president, Nandi-Ndaitwah has spoken about the need for targeted support for micro, small and medium enterprises, which are crucial economic stimulators.
Moving closer to economic emancipation will also depend on the implementation of robust policies in the oil, gas and renewable energy sectors.
At the same time, improving efficiency and service delivery across government offices, ministries and agencies will foster a more business-friendly environment and address some of the bottlenecks hampering progress.
The challenges facing Namibia are formidable, but they are not insurmountable.
By focusing on job creation, poverty reduction and the empowerment of all Namibians, Nandi-Ndaitwah’s government can lay the foundation for a more prosperous, united and inclusive nation. For this vision to become a reality, it will require the full commitment of the Namibian people, regardless of gender, ethnicity or political affiliation.
Nandi-Ndaitwah has made bold commitments to steer the country toward prosperity – it is up to all Namibians to stand with her and build that future.
- – Twahafa Neshuku is local writer and African Continental Free Trade Area consultant.
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