A new chapter has commenced for Namibia’s business community following the election of Vetumbuavi Mungunda as president of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI). The leadership transition, confirmed at the chamber’s Annual General Meeting on 27 March 2026 at the Hilton Hotel Windhoek, signals a decisive shift toward a more assertive and inclusive business agenda.
Mungunda takes over from outgoing President Bisey /Uirab, whose tenure was marked by steady institutional stewardship. In a move that underscores continuity amid change, /Uirab will remain on the board, alongside Dr Leake Hangala, who assumes the role of Honourary Director.
In his inaugural address, Mungunda struck a firm and reflective tone, paying tribute to past NCCI leaders dating back to Independence, including founding President Rick Kukuri. He reminded the newly elected board of the weight of their mandate, which is to serve not for personal gain, but as custodians of an institution central to Namibia’s economic trajectory. “Leadership in this role is about preserving what has been entrusted to us and leaving it stronger,” he declared.
But it was his forward-looking agenda that delivered the clearest message, that the NCCI is preparing to sharpen its influence. Mungunda outlined plans to aggressively strengthen institutional capacity through targeted resource mobilisation, strategic staff recruitment, and the development of robust economic and policy analysis capabilities. This, he argued, will position the chamber as a formidable voice in national and regional economic debates.
Equally significant is his push for inclusivity as the chamber is set to review its constitution to ensure broader representation across sectors and regions. This an acknowledgment that Namibia’s evolving economy demands a more diverse business voice. Plans are also underway at the NCCI to co-opt additional expertise, widening the chamber’s reach and relevance.
As Namibia’s premier business advocacy body, the NCCI plays a pivotal role in shaping the country’s economic environment. Under Mungunda’s leadership, expectations are high that the chamber will not only defend business interests but actively drive policy dialogue and national development in a rapidly changing economic landscape.