Africa-Press – Namibia. Windhoek, 11 December 2025
It is a great honour for us to address you on behalf of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Republic of Namibia. More than a protocol ceremony, this gathering offers a moment to recognise and celebrate the path Namibia has forged with courage, strategic vision and an unwavering commitment to the universal values of justice, equity, sovereignty and human dignity.
In a global context where public integrity is continually tested, we commend the firm path Namibia has taken: that of transparency, accountability and the strengthening of robust institutions. This path not only consolidates its democracy but also sends a clear message to future generations that the exercise of power must be guided by ethics and that public service must remain a genuine commitment to the common good.
Minister, the diplomatic corps is once again pleased with your appointment as minister of international relations and trade. As you often say, you are one of us. You have served with distinction as Namibia’s ambassador to several countries and at the United Nations. We are thus honoured to be part of your constituency and remain committed to working with you.
We recognise that since taking office, you have worked to strengthen Namibia’s bilateral and multilateral relations with its partners. Several bilateral meetings have already taken place, both in Namibia and abroad. We know that your commitment to engaging all bilateral partners remains unchanged. The coming year will no doubt bring fresh opportunities to revitalise cooperation with partners who have been waiting in the wings.
We cannot close this chapter without acknowledging president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for her steadfast leadership and tireless efforts to deepen and broaden Namibia’s bilateral and multilateral engagement across the world.
The president has placed youth empowerment at the centre of her national vision, addressing the urgent challenge of youth unemployment by prioritising sectors with transformative potential, including agriculture, housing, and the cultural and creative industries. These priorities are firmly embedded in the recently launched Sixth National Development Plan, where she has already highlighted tangible achievements within the first 100 days of her administration.
As she guides the nation forward, the president continues to align Namibia’s development trajectory with the long-term aspirations of Agenda 2063 and the global ambition of the Sustainable Development Goals. Her strategic foresight ensures that Namibia remains a principled and future-focused voice on the African continent and the international stage.
Her nomination by the African Leadership Organisation is a well-deserved recognition of her exemplary career and her commitment to transparency, social justice and the empowerment of women. Her transformative leadership, centred on institutional strengthening, the fight against corruption and the promotion of gender equality, has elevated Namibia’s standing and positioned it as a continental benchmark for ethical governance and inclusivity.
The diplomatic corps expresses its appreciation for this welcome initiative, which allows us to gather once more before the end of the year. We wish you, your family, and the leadership and staff of the ministry a peaceful and joyful holiday season.
I thank you.
Merci beaucoup.
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