A selection of memorable quotes of outgoing president Hifikepunye Pohamba over the past 10 years.
“I STAND before you today filled with pride, gratitude and humility. A little while ago, I took a solemn oath to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the Republic of Namibia. I swore that I will, from this day on, dedicate myself to the service and well-being of the people of Namibia, without exception, and to do right to all.”
“We want to entrench a culture where investment projects proceed in a speedy manner from the time they are presented to Namibian authorities to their implementation.”
“Our people go to hospitals in order to receive care and healing, not to have their lives placed at risk.”
“I have said it before, and I will say it again, we must always strive to ensure that no Namibian citizen is left behind in our development efforts.”
“As before, there will be zero tolerance for waste and corruption in public life. I, therefore, make a solemn pledge to you my compatriots, and fellow citizens that I shall set a personal example.”
“I am conscious that peace, security and stability we enjoy today will have to be accompanied by sustainable economic growth, social development, discipline and self-sacrifice.”
“Namibia is not an island. Our economy is intertwined in many ways with the global economy.”
“We must uphold the values, ideals and practices that represent and promote a common African identity. We must continue to promote and broaden these practices because we are proud Africans.”
“We are aware that some of our workers work under very harsh and inhumane conditions for a mere pittance, in most cases.”
“The public resources at our disposal are limited. It is, therefore, imperative that we are guided by prudent financial management. In other words, strict financial discipline will be enforced.”
“I encourage all our people to get tested in order to know their status and take appropriate action. I also urge our people to make safe choices in order to protect themselves and their families.”
“Namibia is my country. Namibia is your country. Let each and everyone of us make a positive contribution to the development of our beautiful country.”