Nandi-Ndaitwah calls for closer public, private partnership

STAFF WRITER

The Namibia Public Private Forum is not just another dialogue forum but is the institutionalising of a partnership of purpose, a bridge between government and business, united by the shared dream of building a prosperous Namibia.

This was said by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said on Thursday when she opened the  inaugural session of the Namibia Public-Private Forum and organised by Namibian Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB).

“This gathering is a tangible demonstration of our collective resolve to strengthen collaboration, inclusivity and trust between the public and private sectors,” she said.

The inaugural session of the Namibia Public-Private Forum and organized by Namibian Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB)

To ensure close collaboration between the government and the private sector, back in 2024 Cabinet has decided on the establishment of the Namibia Public-Private Forum (NamPPF).

The Forum’s main objective is to facilitate dialogue between the public and the private sectors in the area of economic development.

Nandi-Ndaitwah said the persistent socio-economic challenges facing the country, the triple threat of unemployment, poverty and inequality, remain the country’s greatest test since independence.

“Data reminds us that Namibia is among the most unequal societies in the world. These challenges not only undermine human dignity but also threaten our social cohesion and national security.”

Namibia is abundantly endowed with natural wealth, from minerals and marine resources to arable land and a vibrant youthful population. However, the President said the task was turn this wealth into wellbeing, to ensure that our natural endowments translate into true economic freedom for every Namibian.

“If harnessed with foresight and integrity, these blessings can be powerful drivers of inclusive growth and resilience,” she said.

She said when she assumed office on 21 March this year, she made a firm commitment to lead a government that rejects business as usual.

The government recently launched the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), anchored in the theme “Fostering Economic Growth, Inclusiveness and Resilience for Sustainable Development.”

NDP6 maps the pathway to achieving Vision 2030, transforming Namibia into a truly industrialised and prosperous nation, the President said.

Nandi-Ndaitwah said the goal is bold yet achievable, to create 500,000 jobs over the next five years.

“While job creation may not rest solely with government, it is our responsibility to create the environment in which businesses can grow and hire. This includes, removing barriers, cutting red tape and ensuring that enterprise thrives,” she said.

NDP6 further calls for a deliberate economic transformation strategy, one that expands our export base, increases productivity and builds a competent public service, the President said.

She said there may be difficulties faced by the business community, which could include regulatory bottlenecks, high operational costs, limited access to markets and infrastructure gaps.

“Government’s role is to create an enabling environment with responsive policies, modern infrastructure and predictable institutions that allow the private sector to thrive.”

The government is reforming outdated laws such as the Land Bill, the Petroleum Act and the Namibia Investment Promotion and Facilitation Bill NIPFB, Nandi-Ndaitwah said.

“The NIPFB in particular will provide stability and confidence to both domestic and international investors,” she said.

The government has introduced tax reforms that make Namibia more competitive relative to our neighbours, signaling our readiness to attract and retain investment, the President added.

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