Industrialisation and trade minister Lucia Iipumbu has hailed late President Hage Geingob’s contribution during his tenure as trade minister, noting a sterling job and solid foundation by her predecessor.  

“When he served as the minister of the then ministry of trade and industry, Geingob left behind a ministry that operates like a well-oiled machine for us to continue building on his legacy, of course true to his mantra of systems, processes and institutions,” said Iipumbu last week during a candle light vigil at the ministry to remember the late president. 

In April 2008, Geingob was appointed as the Minister of Trade and Industry for four years by former president Hifikepunye Pohamba.

The mandate of the trade and industry ministry at the time was to create a conducive environment for the private sector to flourish in. This is because the sector remains crucial as the primary engine for economic growth and job creation. 

Iipumbu added that Geingob’s contribution in the portfolio, demonstrated unwavering commitment to advancing economic development, industrialisation, trade promotion, while fostering sustainable investments and international cooperation. 

Iipumbu continued that under Geingob’s leadership, Namibia witnessed exceptional growth and prosperity in its trade relations with other nations. 

“Geingob understood the crucial role that trade and industrial cooperation plays in driving economic progress and improving the lives of our people. His efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties, negotiate mutually beneficial agreements and create opportunities for Namibian businesses will be remembered as cornerstones of his legacy,” recounted the minister. 

Another priority Geingob focussed on was the establishment of the Namibia Board of Trade, which is aimed at managing imports and exports and applying trade remedies.

Iipumbu pointed out that the ministry is planning to table a Board of Trade Bill during the course of this year.

“We further pledge to continue building on this legacy, including his bigger dream of green industrialisation,” the minister said about the departed Geingob. 

Meanwhile, Head of Sustainable Energies at the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (Namcor), Frans Kalenga appreciated Geingob’s advice during troubling times the entity experienced. 

“He believed in economic emancipation, that a Namibian child will one day have access to all good things. Unfortunately, he won’t be around to enjoy the Namibian house that he tried to build but I want to implore all of us that while we are in the midst of oil discoveries and green ambitions, let us work hard and tirelessly so that this vision will be realised for the community, so that his death does not go in vein,” said Kalenga at Namcor’s head office last week. -mndjavera@nepc.com.na