NCCI Ongwediva leadership urged to foster inclusive economic growth

Oshana regional governor Elia Irimari welcomed the newly elected leadership of the Ongwediva branch of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) last week, calling on them to rise to the occasion with bold and inclusive leadership.Speaking to a gathering of local government officials, business leaders, educators and community stakeholders in Ongwediva on Wednesday, Irimari emphasised that the announcement of a new NCCI leadership should mark more than just a change in office – it should symbolise renewed commitment to economic transformation in the region.“You have been entrusted with a noble and strategic task – to drive business development, economic growth and inclusive industrial transformation in our region,” the governor said.He said NCCI acts as an important link between government and the private sector. “The Ongwediva branch must be bold, visionary and inclusive in its leadership,” Irimari said, urging the new committee to prioritise support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), youth entrepreneurs, women-led businesses and informal traders.Highlighting pressing socio-economic challenges faced by the region, ranging from youth unemployment and limited access to capital to the rising cost of doing business and the impacts of climate change, he also called for greater collaboration between the public and private sectors.“Government cannot act alone. The private sector must lead in identifying investment opportunities, driving job creation and promoting innovation,” he stressed.Strong working relationshipHe further noted ongoing government investments in infrastructure, SME parks and youth training initiatives as part of efforts to build a conducive environment for business growth. However, Irimari cautioned that these initiatives can only be effective with strong coordination and partnership from the private sector.The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting business development and reducing bureaucratic hurdles that hinder investment.“The new NCCI leadership will not be defined by position but by the impact made. You carry the hopes of our region’s business community. Rise to the occasion. Be deliberate, be inclusive, and above all, be accountable," Irimari said.Regional interests Panduleni Uahengo, NCCI branch chairperson, said the local business community faces numerous challenges, and the NCCI has pledged to be strong advocates for their interests.Uahengo said the new members intend to bring greater awareness to issues affecting business in Ongwediva and its surroundings while fostering collaborative solutions.“We firmly believe in engagement, unity and strategic partnerships, recognising that a thriving business environment benefits us all,” he said.Uahengo said capacity building remains a cornerstone of their vision.He also called on stakeholders in the private and public sectors to support the branch as they mobilise resources for the establishment of their new office.The new NCCI Ongwediva members are Johanna Nghidinua, Hilkka Nekwaya, Panduleni Uahengo (chairperson), John Ndume, Salomon Iipinge, Taimi Shivute and Kondjeni Ntinda.-tuyeimo@nmh-hub.com.na

NCCI Ongwediva leadership urged to foster inclusive economic growth

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-31

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NCCI Ongwediva leadership urged to foster inclusive economic growth

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-31

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