President Nangolo Mbumba has acknowledged the immense challenges and profound loss Namibia faced in 2024, yet also a year that laid the groundwork for prosperity.
He expressed gratitude for the international support received during difficult times.
Speaking at the New Year’s greetings’ ceremony for the diplomatic corps on Friday, the Head of State highlighted key events that shaped the country over the past year, and outlined future aspirations.
President Mbumba recalled the passing of President Hage Geingob on 4 February 2024, describing him as an extraordinary leader.
He expressed appreciation for the solidarity shown by the international community during Namibia’s mourning period, which he said helped ensure a smooth transfer of power.
“While still in mourning, we had to concurrently effect a smooth transition of power. This we did with your goodwill and assistance, especially that of our citizens. At this juncture, let me once again extend our deepest gratitude to you all and your respective governments for comforting us during that difficult period of our deepest loss,” Mbumba said.
Another significant challenge Namibia faced in 2024 was a severe drought, which led to Mbumba declaring a state of emergency on 22 May.
“I had to declare a state of emergency due to the devastating drought facing the country to protect the lives and livelihoods of our people. I am pleased to note that the responses from your respective governments were overwhelmingly positive,” he said.
“Namibia continues to receive material support and assistance from our sister countries and partners. We warmly thank all your governments, institutions, NGOs and Namibian businesses and individuals who donated generously in many different forms, assisting us to cope with the drought calamity,” he noted.
Despite the arrival of the first rains, Mbumba stressed that Namibia is “not yet out of the woods,” and called for continued support from the international community.
In terms of diplomatic and economic cooperation, the President highlighted progress made in implementing signed agreements through bi-national commissions and joint commissions of cooperation. While acknowledging that there is room for improvement, he said Namibia is doing well in fostering partnerships.
Despite these challenges, Namibia made strides in strengthening international cooperation.
“The government reviewed the implementation of various legal instruments, joint projects and programmes with partner nations, noting progress while acknowledging room for improvement”.
In November, he added, the country successfully held its Presidential and National Assembly elections, marking a historic moment as the country prepares to inaugurate its first female president, Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, on 21 March, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of Namibia’s independence.
The outgoing administration expressed confidence in continued collaboration with international partners under the new leadership. “I have no doubt that you will be working with her in the same collegial and collaborative manner as per our venerable custom since independence,” he told the diplomatic corps.
On the international stage, he expressed pride in Namibia’s role as a co-facilitator of the Summit of the Future alongside Germany, where the Pact for the Future was adopted at the United Nations.
He also noted Namibia’s participation in the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, which yielded important resolutions to improve livelihoods, as well as engagements at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference.
“We were equally humbled to participate in these important platforms that strengthen our historic ties and shape a sustainable future,” he stated. Mbumba reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and sustainable development, thanking the diplomatic community for their continued partnership in advancing the country’s progress.
-ljason@nepc.com.na