President Nangolo Mbumba announced that Namibia has transitioned from being a passive participant to an active contributor in global dialogues, emphasising its commitment to promoting equality and recognition for smaller and developing nations in international decision-making processes.
The Head of State made these remarks at State House while reflecting on his recent visits to New York, Germany and Spain.
Mbumba said during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), he confidently highlighted Namibia’s progress, and reiterated the country’s dedication to amplifying the voices of smaller and developing nations.
He pointed out that despite its limited resources and modest diplomatic presence, the country has effectively established itself as a prominent advocate for the global south, pushing for equitable representation within international organisations.
“We aimed to represent the Global South of developing nations like ours, making sure that their voices are heard. We demand our right to be heard,” noted the President.
Mbumba emphasised the ongoing disparities present in the global framework, where smaller nations frequently lack permanent representation in essential decision-making entities, such as the UN Security Council.
“This is no longer 1945. It is not even 1965. It is not even 1995. It is 2024. So, we demand our right to be heard. We cannot stay silent,” he declared.
The President acknowledged the unwavering commitment of Namibia’s Ambassador to the UN, Neville Gertze, for his diligent work throughout the negotiations which preceded the Summit of the Future.
Mbumba highlighted Gertze’s perseverance, noting that the ambassador was actively engaged in discussions at the UN headquarters upon Mbumba’s arrival in New York.
“I must say our ambassador did a fantastic job. Just imagine Namibia, as small as we are, coordinating the position from countries like Indonesia, India, Brazil and Mexico, not to mention the entire continent of Africa,” the Head of State beamed.
In his reflections on Namibia’s stance regarding significant global matters, Mbumba called upon world leaders to acknowledge the critical nature of equality in human rights and representation. He asserted that countries ought to be evaluated not by their size, economic influence or military capabilities, but rather by their dedication to peace and justice.
Strategy
The President emphasised that his missions and extensive engagements in the United States, Germany and Spain highlight the vital role of both multilateral and bilateral partnerships in advancing Namibia’s development strategy.
National development cannot take place in a vacuum, it necessitates international cooperation, utilising external opportunities to enhance growth and address global challenges.
“Our country cannot develop if we don’t nurture partnerships by responding to opportunities in the external environment. Therefore, missions of this nature are essential to spur national development,” he emphasised.
The meetings with world leaders included Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany and King Felipe VI of Spain.
Environmental sustainability
International Relations minister Peya Mushelenga said Namibia’s involvement in the UNGA also encompassed dialogues on environmental sustainability and the battle against climate change.
He said Namibia reiterated its commitment to addressing carbon emissions, urging developed nations to provide financial support to smaller countries such as Namibia, which have been adversely affected by the consequences of climate change.
Additionally addressing the briefing was Obeth Kandjoze, the director general of the National Planning Commission, who emphasised the nation’s dedication to renewable energy.
He underscored Namibia’s progress in clean energy initiatives, particularly in the areas of solar and wind power.
Global influence
Furthermore, the president announced that ongoing discussions are taking place with prominent individuals, including Elon Musk, concerning technological advancements such as Starlink, which has the potential to enhance connectivity within the nation.
Furthermore, Mines and Energy minister Tom Alweendo provided insights into the country’s prohibition on raw mineral exports. Since the implementation of this ban, Namibia has successfully established two processing facilities, demonstrating its dedication to adding value to its natural resources.
He said the diamond sector is likewise thriving, with 15% of Namibia’s diamonds now being processed domestically by 11 cutting and polishing enterprises. Additionally, Namibia is a founding member of the Mineral Supply Forum, a collaborative initiative aimed at uniting countries from the Global South to address the shortage of raw materials essential for renewable energy technologies.
“We hold these minerals, but we don’t just want to export them. We want to add value, process them here, and then sell the finished product. We must be the ones leading this industry, not just supplying the raw materials,” he stressed.
Green hydrogen
Alweendo stated that Namibia is approaching a pivotal transformation, establishing itself as a frontrunner in the green hydrogen industry and mineral processing.
He highlighted that the nation is not only drawing the attention of international investors to its green hydrogen initiatives, but also creating substantial interest from the global market, which is keen to acquire the hydrogen it has the capacity to produce.
“We are being taken seriously, not just by investors, but by the market… People want to buy the hydrogen we can produce, and they see the possibilities. It is crucial for us to recognise this opportunity,” said the minister.
He commented on a recent event in New York, which focused on showcasing Namibia’s potential in green hydrogen, emphasising the increasing progress within the sector.
“The market is developing, the technology is improving, and we are not alone in this journey. We are part of a global conversation about the energy transition,” noted Alweendo.
Elections
Mbumba also touched on the upcoming elections, commending the Namibian people for upholding peace throughout the electoral process so far.
“I must thank Namibians for being peaceful people. In any other country, with only a month-and-a-half before elections, the police would be very busy. But here, we are at peace,” he said.
The president reminded citizens that voting is the cornerstone of democracy.
“Democracy means participation in the democratic process, and voting is the apex of that process. Your vote counts, and by participating, you claim your right to democracy,” noted the Head of State.