Staff Reporter
AS Namibia celebrates its 36th Independence Day today, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for unity, inclusive development, and renewed efforts to tackle poverty, inequality, and corruption. “We commemorate our Independence under the theme ‘Beyond 36: For a Prosperous Future’, which calls on us to not only celebrate the achievements of the past 36 years, but also to actively shape the future we are building together,” she said.
Addressing the nation during the official celebrations in Windhoek, the President reflected on Namibia’s historic journey to independence on 21 March 1990, when the country emerged from colonial rule under the leadership of founding president Sam Nujoma.
She paid tribute to the sacrifices of those who fought for liberation, emphasising that the country’s freedom was hard-won and must be safeguarded through collective responsibility and national unity.
“This year’s commemoration is not only about celebrating our past achievements, but also about shaping a prosperous, inclusive, and united future,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
For the first time, Independence Day celebrations were held simultaneously across all 14 regions, a move aimed at ensuring broader participation and fostering a sense of ownership among all Namibians.
The President highlighted progress made since independence, including the strengthening of democratic institutions, expansion of infrastructure, and improvements in education and healthcare. She said that Namibia now produces its own skilled professionals, including medical practitioners, reflecting advancements in human capital development.
However, she acknowledged that significant challenges remain, particularly poverty, unemployment, and inequality. She stressed that addressing these issues requires collaboration between government, the private sector, civil society, and citizens.
“We are too few to be poor,” she said, urging collective action to improve living standards and expand opportunities for all Namibians.
Nandi-Ndaitwah also issued a strong warning against corruption, describing it as a betrayal of public trust that undermines development and service delivery. She called for accountability and integrity among public officials.
In addition, she cautioned against the rise of tribalism, racism, and regionalism, warning that such divisions threaten national unity and stability.
On the economic front, the President said Namibia’s economy is projected to grow by 3.1% in 2026, despite increasing global uncertainty. She noted that geopolitical tensions and conflicts abroad could impact the country’s economy, particularly through trade and energy markets.
She reaffirmed government’s commitment to key priorities under the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), with agriculture identified as a central pillar. Other initiatives highlighted included youth empowerment programmes, subsidised tertiary education, infrastructure development, and strengthened social support systems.
The President also addressed climate change, urging both Namibia and the international community to intensify mitigation and adaptation efforts to protect the environment and sustain development gains.
On the international stage, Namibia will continue to advocate for peace, dialogue, and respect for international law, she said, calling on countries involved in conflicts to pursue peaceful resolutions.
Concluding her address, Nandi-Ndaitwah urged Namibians to remain united and committed to building a better future.
“Let us move forward together as One Namibia, One Nation, united in purpose and confident in our future,” she said.
Photo: Namibian Presidency
