Team Namibia recently held its annual general meeting (AGM), bringing key stakeholders, industry leaders and government officials together under the theme ‘Rooted in Namibia, Thriving Together’. The event celebrated the organisation’s continued commitment to driving local economic growth, and promoting Namibian products through strategic collaboration and patriotism.
Patricia Hoeksema from Team Namibia’s board of directors welcomed attendees, setting the tone for the event. She advised: “This meeting is a key moment for us to celebrate the strides we’ve made; recognise the partnerships we’ve built, and explore new opportunities for growth and impact. Since our establishment in 2003, Team Namibia has experienced many successful years, but like many enterprises, we were significantly challenged by the Covid-19 pandemic. We had to make difficult decisions as a board, reducing fixed costs and scaling back services, focusing on keeping essential networking and support services alive to sustain our organisation during a time when many members couldn’t.”
Hoeksema added that today, not only did Team Namibia survive, but has built a strong foundation with the continued support of the founding members, the Namibia Standards Institution, The Namibian Barcode Association and new partners. “Together, we are working passionately to ensure the increased consumption of Namibian products and services by raising standards, and fostering a culture of excellence. The key themes of today’s event—localisation, collaboration and national pride—are the foundation upon which we are building a future that benefits all Namibians.”
Keynote speaker Lucia Iipumbu, industrialisation and trade minister, highlighted the crucial role of Team Namibia since its founding in 2003. She reflected on the organisation’s efforts to promote local products, foster discipline, and create business opportunities. “Today, as we are gathered here, we are reflecting on the road we have travelled and, at the same time, build a vision and renew the commitment to what we need to do. Each one of us has a small contribution to make that will culminate in efficacy, which will ultimately benefit local government,” she remarked.
Iipumbu also stressed the need for Namibia’s local industries to enhance their packaging and brand quality to match international standards, fostering a sense of pride and economic independence. As a “self-appointed ambassador of supporting local,” she passionately advocated for sustained support for local businesses as a driving force for national economic resilience and community strength.
Team Namibia chairperson Sidney Hanstein echoed the importance of collaboration and synchrony, noting: “Much like the natural rhythms of life, such as the circadian rhythm, our progress as an organisation and a nation depends on moving together and being in sync. Only then can we truly thrive.”
According to a Team Namibia statement, the meeting was an inspiring reminder of the importance of localisation, collaboration and national pride in building a sustainable future for Namibia. As attendees enjoyed the remainder of the day, the call to action was clear: to continue working together in support of Namibian growth, innovation and success.