President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for stronger collaboration between Government and the private sector to create jobs, grow emerging businesses and ensure that Namibia’s economic opportunities benefit ordinary households.
Speaking at the official opening of the 25th edition of the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair, the President said Namibia is entering a new chapter of economic opportunity, driven by emerging and expanding sectors such as oil and gas, renewable energy, green hydrogen, logistics, technology, agriculture, manufacturing and value addition.
She said these sectors would require a new generation of skilled and determined Namibians who are prepared to participate meaningfully in the economy. “The future we speak about will not build itself. It will require prepared young Namibians who are ready to take their rightful place in our country’s development,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
The President identified job creation as one of Government’s foremost objectives, saying trade fairs and similar platforms should play a greater role in supporting emerging enterprises and start-ups. She said such platforms should not only provide visibility to established businesses but should also help small businesses gain access to markets, expand their operations and ultimately create dignified employment.
According to the President, economic growth should be measured not only through national statistics, but by its impact on ordinary people. She said this includes young graduates finding employment, entrepreneurs gaining access to markets, small and medium enterprises expanding and families seeing their prospects improve through increased economic opportunities.
Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed that inclusive development is a national necessity and linked the Government’s approach to the principle that “We are too few to be poor.”
She further emphasised the strategic role of the private sector in driving economic growth and sustainable development, urging businesses of all sizes to work together rather than operate in isolation. The President encouraged large and small businesses to “embrace one another”, arguing that greater cooperation would enable Namibia to make better use of its limited resources and opportunities.
She also drew on the words of Namibia’s Founding President, Sam Nujoma, who emphasised the importance of unity in achieving common national goals.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said Namibia’s economic future would depend on a collective effort involving Government, businesses, entrepreneurs and young people.
The Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair provides a platform for businesses, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to showcase products and services, establish networks and explore new market opportunities.
The President’s message placed particular emphasis on ensuring that such platforms contribute directly to enterprise development, job creation and broader economic inclusion.
By Rudi Bowe
