Mbambo appointed new presidential press secretary

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has appointed broadcaster Jonas Mbambo as her new press secretary and spokesperson of the Presidency, effective 1 August 2025, State House has announced.Mbambo, a seasoned journalist currently employed at the Namibia Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), holds a law degree from the People’s Friendship University in Moscow.“With strong analytical skills and a solid grasp of Namibia’s political landscape, Mr Mbambo brings to the Presidency a wealth of knowledge gained through years in media, particularly broadcasting journalism,” the Presidency said in a statement. “President Nandi-Ndaitwah has full confidence in Mr Mbambo’s ability to carry out his duties successfully.”Hengari heads to FrancePresident Nandi-Ndaitwah also expressed gratitude to outgoing press secretary Dr Alfredo Hengari, who served in the role under three Namibian presidents: Hage Geingob, Nangolo Mbumba and now Nandi-Ndaitwah herself.Namibian Sun understands Hengari will take up the post of Namibia’s ambassador to France.Reflecting on his time at State House, Hengari said: “It has been an immense privilege to serve as spokesperson in the Presidency under three exceptional leaders of the Namibian people — President Hage G. Geingob, President Nangolo Mbumba and now President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. I express my gratitude to them for the confidence they placed in me.”Hengari, who served as presidential spokesperson for over seven years, said he had witnessed diverse leadership styles during his tenure, but that all three presidents shared a “profound commitment to hard work, infectious love for the nation, and a passion for a fair and just society.”“I leave the Presidency at a time of great hope for our nation, and with deep respect for the remarkable commitment and energy President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is showing to transform the socio-economic architecture of our country,” he added.LegacyWhile his relationship with the local press was occasionally strained, Hengari said he would miss working with journalists, whom he described as vital stakeholders in Namibia’s development.“President Hage G. Geingob used to caution that the press should not become a lapdog serving factional interests, but remain a watchdog,” he said. “President Nandi-Ndaitwah reminded the media that they are the fourth arm of government. In my view, this implies heavy but crucial responsibilities - ones that should not be dwarfed by opinion journalism and sensationalism, but rather anchored in a commitment to a craft that can positively accompany Namibians on this transformational journey.”

Mbambo appointed new presidential press secretary

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-26

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Mbambo appointed new presidential press secretary

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-26

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