Allexer Namundjembo
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has launched the sixth national development plan (NDP6), presenting a clear roadmap to transform the economy, improve public services, and reduce structural inequality.
“We can no longer continue to speak the language of ‘plans are not implemented.’ This plan will deliver,” she said during the launch on Monday.
The launch comes after repeated delays.
In 2023, then prime minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila had announced that NDP6 would be launched in March 2025. The National Planning Commission later stated in January 2025 that it was finalising consultations and waiting for Cabinet approval.
In the same month, the Commission said the launch would take place in April 2025, a month later than expected.
Five months ago, government officials said the delay would not affect development planning because current projects and strategies were already captured in the medium-term expenditure frameworks.
The 2024 Swapo party election manifesto implementation plan has been incorporated into NDP6.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said the plan is built on practical implementation, measurable outcomes, and inclusivity. It aims to respond directly to Namibia’s current social and economic challenges.
A key focus of NDP6 is agriculture.
The government plans to boost food production by expanding irrigation schemes, investing in seed processing facilities, and supporting livestock farming. These efforts aim to fight hunger and create jobs in rural areas.
On energy, the president said the government will increase investment in renewable power. Projects like the Otjikoto Biomass Power Station and several solar installations are expected to improve energy security and reduce reliance on imports. The government is also exploring nuclear energy as a long-term option.
NDP6 outlines plans to promote economic transformation through industrialisation and value addition. The government will push for legislation on mineral beneficiation and work to establish a national gold reserve. A national economic recovery strategy will support these efforts by encouraging public-private investment.
The plan places youth at the centre of national development. The National Youth Fund will be scaled up to offer non-collateral loans to young entrepreneurs. Technical and vocational education will be expanded, with a target to place at least 5,000 graduates into jobs, internships, or apprenticeships each year.
Namibia’s trade policy will be reviewed to support regional integration and global competitiveness. The government will work to support MSMEs and make it easier to start and operate businesses.
In fisheries, the plan promotes aquaculture and fish farming, especially in freshwater areas. These projects aim to strengthen food security and make better use of Namibia’s marine and water resources.
Other priorities in NDP6 include digital infrastructure, e-governance, and health system upgrades. The plan targets investments in maternal and child health, TB control, reproductive healthcare, and digitalising public services for better access and efficiency.
On governance, the president said public servants will be held accountable through performance-based systems aligned with NDP6 goals. Procurement and anti-corruption systems will also be digitalised.
Nandi-Ndaitwah contrasted NDP6 with the previous plan, NDP5, launched in 2017 under late president Hage Geingob. NDP5 was part of the Harambee Prosperity Agenda but was widely criticised for poor execution and limited results.
