Staff Reporter
PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for African unity, economic independence and stronger collective action in a rapidly changing global order, warning that escalating conflicts, debt distress and climate change are testing multilateralism and the fairness of the international system.
Addressing the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union during a segment for newly elected African Heads of State in Addis Ababa, President Nandi-Ndaitwah congratulated the President of Burundi on assuming the AU Chairpersonship and pledged Namibia’s support in advancing the vision of “The Africa We Want.”
The President said she was deeply honoured to address the Assembly as Namibia’s fifth Head of State, acknowledging the legacy of the country’s previous leaders.
Reflecting on the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, she said Africa’s liberation was born out of struggle, sacrifice and determination by millions who demanded dignity, freedom and self-determination.
She added that the continent now meets at another pivotal moment marked by global tension, fragmentation, deepening debt distress and an escalating climate crisis. Multilateralism, she said, is under strain, while small states — particularly from the Global South — are raising concerns about fairness, historical redress and accountability in the international system.
Against this backdrop, President Nandi-Ndaitwah urged the continent to use the AU’s Agenda 2063 as a framework to secure Africa’s economic independence, technological sovereignty and control over its natural resources for the benefit of its people, especially youth and women.
She emphasised that Africa must not become a battleground for competing global interests but rather position itself as a partner of choice, guided by mutual respect, shared prosperity and principled engagement.
Touching on the AU’s theme of the year, which focuses on water and climate resilience, the President stressed that sustainable water availability is critical to peace and stability on the continent and called for closer cooperation among member states.
Concluding her address, President Nandi-Ndaitwah said history has shown that when Africa speaks with one voice, the world listens, adding that she looks forward to working with fellow leaders to write the next chapter of the continent’s story with renewed resolve.
Photo: Namibian Presidency
