Accelerating inclusive economic growth and creating jobs remain central priorities for the government as Namibia celebrates 36 years of independence, according to presidential spokesperson Jonas Mbambo.
Speaking in an interview with New Era, Mbambo said the development agenda of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is guided by the country’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which sets the direction for Namibia’s progress in the coming years.
He said the administration is focused on strengthening the economy while ensuring that development benefits all Namibians.
“As Namibia marks 36 years of independence, the priorities of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah are guided by the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which serves as the central framework for the country’s development agenda during the current administration,” Mbambo said.
He added that the government’s focus is on “accelerating inclusive economic growth, creating jobs, strengthening social services, and ensuring that Namibia’s natural resources are managed responsibly for the benefit of all Namibians.”
Furthermore, youth empowerment and economic diversification are also key priorities as the country seeks to build a resilient economy capable of sustaining long-term development.
Government reforms and development initiatives are largely centred on sectors that can unlock economic opportunities while improving the delivery of services to citizens.
Priority areas include housing and land delivery, strengthening the healthcare system, improving education and skills development, and investing in key infrastructure.
“Key areas include housing and land delivery, strengthening the healthcare system, improving education and skills development, and investing in infrastructure such as water security, energy and transport,” he noted.
Clean energy
Namibia is also positioning itself to benefit from emerging economic sectors, particularly green hydrogen, while continuing to explore opportunities in oil and gas development.
Mbambo explained that the country’s energy strategy seeks to balance economic development with environmental responsibility.
“Many developed economies have historically used fossil fuels to build their economies. Namibia is therefore pursuing a balanced energy approach, exploring opportunities across different sectors while ensuring that development is carried out responsibly and sustainably,” he said. Addressing unemployment and inequality remains another key focus area for the government, Mbambo said, adding that solving these challenges requires cooperation between the public and private sectors.
“Addressing unemployment and inequality requires a collective effort between government and the private sector. Government alone cannot resolve these challenges,” he said.
He added the government’s role is to create conditions that encourage investment, improve the ease of doing business and stimulate economic activity.
At the same time, authorities are encouraging entrepreneurship to enable more Namibians to become job creators.
Mbambo highlighted initiatives such as the National Youth Fund, which aims to expand opportunities for young people by improving access to financing for business start-ups. “Initiatives such as the National Youth Fund are intended to expand opportunities for young people by providing access to financing, often without traditional collateral, to start businesses that can generate employment for themselves and others,” he said.
Beyond domestic development, Namibia will continue to play an active role in regional and international affairs.
Mbambo said the country’s foreign policy remains guided by a principled and pragmatic approach that places national interest at the centre while recognising the importance of cooperation in a globalised world.
He noted that Namibia will continue advancing its interests through regional and continental platforms such as the Southern African Development Community and the African Union, as well as global institutions like the United Nations. “In a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment, Namibia recognises the importance of strategic engagement,” Mbambo said. He continued: “For smaller states in particular, it is essential to navigate global developments carefully while strengthening regional cooperation and promoting respect for international law and multilateralism.”
As Namibia commemorates its independence anniversary, the president is also urging citizens to reflect on the country’s journey while strengthening unity.
Mbambo said the occasion should serve as a moment for Namibians to appreciate the peace, stability and progress achieved since independence.
“The president encourages Namibians to use the occasion as a moment of reflection, unity and celebration,” he said.
He added that older generations should share their experiences with younger Namibians to ensure the sacrifices made in securing freedom are remembered. At the same time, the president has called on all Namibians to work together to address the challenges that remain.
“She calls on all Namibians to work together in addressing the many but not insurmountable challenges that remain, as the country strives towards building a more prosperous and inclusive future,” Mbambo said.
– ljason@nepc.com.na