President Nangolo Mbumba appointed new diplomatic representatives to Namibia’s missions in Botswana, Senegal and Brazil.
At State House yesterday, Selma Nghinamundova was designated to Brazil while Elizabeth Kakukuru was sent to Botswana, and Richard Tsandib to Senegal.
Nghinamundova replaces Samuel Nuuyoma, while Kakukuru replaced veteran politician Asser Kapere while Tsandib will fill Elvis Shiweda’s void.
Shiweda was recently recalled following allegations that he attempted to rape a Namibian staff member at the embassy – a claim he vehemently denies.
The alleged incident took place in August 2023 outside Shiweda’s official residence in the capital Dakar, while he was escorting her to her car.
Addressing the new Heads of Missions, Mbumba emphasised their responsibility to represent Namibia’s national interests with honour and dignity, underlining the importance of strengthening diplomatic ties and advancing Namibia’s development agenda on the global stage.
“You have made a vow to promote, protect, and place Namibia’s national interest above all else. I expect you, as my representatives, to inform your host countries truthfully and regularly about economic opportunities and other developments in Namibia,” Mbumba said at a ceremony.
He added: “This is indeed a proud moment for you, your families, and the Namibian government. On this day, you are entrusted with the responsibility and given the privilege of representing your motherland abroad.”
The President further underscored the trust placed in these ambassadors to not only represent Namibia but to actively foster and consolidate relations with their host countries.
He told them to enhance the diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties that bind Namibia to the global community.
“I have appointed you, distinguished citizens of the Republic of Namibia, to represent me in your host countries. You are well aware of the interests between Namibia and your host countries, and I believe that you share my desire to consolidate and enhance these relations,” Mbumba said.
In addition to promoting strong bilateral relations, the ambassadors were urged to promote Namibia’s economic potential.
Moreover, the President highlighted the importance of ensuring that Namibia gains more trading partners and improves its global competitiveness rankings. He emphasised the role of Namibia’s foreign policy as an extension of its domestic goals, particularly in addressing socio-economic challenges.
“Whatever you will be doing as Namibia’s ambassadors, must translate into tangible benefits for the Namibian people and contribute to our developmental agenda, as well as our quest to build a united, peaceful, and prosperous Namibian house,” Mbumba said.
He charged the ambassadors with finding niche markets for Namibian products and keeping abreast of global shifts in science, technology, climate change, and geopolitics.
The ambassadors were reminded of their duty to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Namibia while maintaining strong personal integrity and the highest standards of character in their diplomatic duties.
“By the oath you have taken, you have made a public commitment to uphold and defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Namibia, at all times,” said Mbumba.
The head of State also highlighted the importance of providing services to Namibian nationals abroad.
“Go well and maintain your love and loyalty for the Republic of Namibia. Hold high the banners of liberty, justice, and freedom,” he said.
Nghinamundova spoke on behalf of the newly appointed ambassadors and reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to strengthening its international relationships and ensuring that its foreign policy aligns with its developmental goals.