Africa-Press – Namibia. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has raised concerns over ongoing corruption in State-owned enterprises (SOEs), calling for ethical leadership and accountability.
Her message, delivered by Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi during the SOE annual general meeting in Walvis Bay yesterday, sounded a stern warning against unethical behaviour.
“Corruption is never accidental. It is by design. You plan it. You carry it out consciously. It must stop,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah described corruption in SOEs as a cancer that must be eradicated – not through rhetoric, but with firm action.
The President’s message comes at a time when former Namcor CEO Immanuel Mulunga and others are battling in court to be released on bail following their arrest over a multi-million dollar oil deal.
Addressing a packed hall of CEOs, board members and policymakers, she expressed the presidency’s deep frustration with repeated reports of misconduct in some SOEs.
She warned that such practices erode public trust and divert resources from national development. “This eighth Administration will not tolerate corruption. Anyone involved will face the full wrath of the law,” she stated.
The President urged SOEs to practise ethical governance, align operations with NDP6 and Vision 2030, and drive inclusive economic growth, especially through youth empowerment.
She applauded institutions like NamibRe for their support of the National Youth Fund, but cautioned against a dependency culture, urging SOEs to focus on building resilient institutions.
“Remain vigilant against corruption in all its forms. Let’s accomplish our objectives with one heart, one mind and leave no space for corruption in our legacy,” she added.
Erongo governor Natalia /Goagoses echoed similar sentiments.
“It can be done,” she said.
“Let’s move beyond talking. We are capable. We are not poor. We are not here to misuse funds. No late-night meetings to see how you can benefit from N$20 million here or there. No shady dealings for your own pockets,” she said.
Meanwhile, various speakers during the opening of the annual general meeting (AGM) of SOEs, attended by over 63 CEOs and board chairpersons, urged CEOs to step into their full potential and leave behind a legacy that will help shape Namibia’s future.
The AGM is held for SOE leaders to share knowledge and expertise, take stock of achievements and reflect on challenges within their sectors.
Speaking at the official opening, chairperson of the SOE Forum Fluksman Samuels said the AGM is more than a routine meeting.
It is a pivotal checkpoint in a decade-long journey of engagement with government and internal reflection.
“We are privileged to lead key state institutions. The question we must ask ourselves is, what will define our legacy when we leave these institutions?” he asked.
He said there is a need to look beyond basic service delivery and focus on economic expansion, youth empowerment and strategic partnerships to address the country’s socio-economic challenges.
“We must build sustainable industries that create sustainable jobs. There’s so much knowledge, talent and goodwill in our public enterprises. We need to unlock it and put it to work,” Samuels said.
He urged SOEs to continue fostering strategic partnerships and implement infrastructure projects that touch the daily lives of Namibians.
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