Zebaldt Ngaruka
GOBABIS – Amanda Serumaga, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) resident representative to Namibia, said corruption is a challenge that affects communities everywhere, and its impact is visible where resources are limited.
Serumaga said this at the International Anti-Corruption Day, themed ‘Uniting with Youth Against Corruption, Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity’, held at Gobabis in the Omaheke region on Tuesday.
“Corruption damages trust in institutions and destroys the promise of equal opportunity. It is especially damaging to youth, who deserve a fair chance to build their futures,” she said.
The UNDP representative said Namibia has made a significant progress in democratic governance and stability despite some challenges.
According to the review of the National Development Plan 5, progress in transparency and accountability has been gradual. Despite the slow progress, Serumaga said there are improvements, public perception of corruption remains high, and this calls for decisive action at the national, regional and local levels.
However, she said the good news for Namibia is that it has already shown that progress is possible.
“Improvements in the Youth Development Index and a reduction in youth unemployment are signs that, with focused policy, government initiatives are opening doors for young people. With continued vigilance, these opportunities can reach those who need them most,” she noted.
Serumaga further emphasised that the fight against corruption is not about blame but it is about building a future where every Namibian, in every region, has a fair chance.
“It is about restoring trust, ensuring dignity, and creating opportunities for all. The roadmap for progress is clear under NDP6, there is a focus on making integrity a core part of public service, reforming systems for better service delivery and expanding citizen participation,” she said.
She called on the youth to speak up when they see wrongdoing and participate in community meetings and public hearings.
“Use digital tools to monitor service delivery and demand transparency. Report corruption without fear, and your voice matters. Make integrity easier and corruption more difficult,” she alluded.
Serumaga further reaffirmed UN and UNDP’s commitment to supporting governance reforms, digitalisation, youth empowerment and national development.
“Our role is to stand with you, to listen, and support your efforts. Together, we can build a Namibia where services reach those who need them most, and where every young person has an opportunity and can follow their dreams and ambitions,” she said, among others.