Africa-Press – Namibia. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has expressed concern over growing conflicts between local authorities and residents, warning that such disputes hinder service delivery and erode public trust.
Speaking at the official opening of the 18th Helao Nafidi Business Expo in the Ohangwena region on Saturday, Nandi-Ndaitwah urged all stakeholders to work together with honesty and urgency.
“I have observed with concern the conflicts that sometimes arise between local authorities and residents. These conflicts delay service delivery and weaken community trust,” she said.
The president called for stronger collaboration and constructive dialogue to resolve disputes affecting local development.
“Let us build partnerships, not divisions. Let us find practical and lasting solutions to challenges that compromise local development,” she added.
Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasised that without cooperation between communities and councils, both sides lose.
“Remember, unity is strength,” she said.
Highlighting Helao Nafidi’s strategic position as a gateway to Angola, the president noted the town’s potential for cross-border trade and regional integration. She said the expo serves as a platform to strengthen business ties and promote economic growth through the movement of people, goods, services and knowledge.
“You can choose a friend, but you cannot choose a brother, sister or neighbour. There is much we can learn and gain from our neighbours, including Angola, and likewise, they can benefit from us,” she remarked.
Nandi-Ndaitwah reiterated her vision of fostering good relations along all Namibia’s borders and called on citizens to support this goal through both words and actions.
She further stressed the importance of empowering entrepreneurs and small businesses as drivers of sustainable development.
“This expo is not just a social event, but a platform for collaboration, learning and growth — a space where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are formed and opportunities are unlocked,” she said.
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