We are broken - Geingos

First Lady Monica Geingos says Namibia is made up of “socially broken” people, which in turn is hampering the country's economic growth.

Geingos highlighted a lack of parental supervision, absent fathers, a dependency on alcohol and tribalism as the leading causes of issues in society.

She made these remarks on Saturday during her keynote address at the Eenhana Trade and Business Expo fundraising gala dinner.

She said a country cannot do well economically, if its society is broken socially.

“Our children are broken, but we have broken adults as well. When you have broken children, you have a broken society,” Geingos said.

“If the society is broken socially, you cannot strengthen the society economically.”

Geingos said Namibians should be patriotic and help government solve some of these issues, which will ensure a better future for the next generations.

She said one does not need to be a Swapo member to be a patriotic citizen.

As long as you are a Namibian, you can be patriotic, as it is about your love for the country.

“We need to see each other as Namibians.”

Geingos called on fellow Namibians to focus on issues that will drive the economy.

The fundraising event for the 12th edition of the expo saw companies and private individuals donate N$400 000.

First National Bank emerged as the biggest sponsor, by presenting a cheque of N$75 000.

The expo takes place from 30 July to 4 August.

President Hage Geingob will officially open the event on 1 August.

Eenhana mayor Amos Nangolo invited Namibians from across the country to visit the expo, promising it will be bigger and better than last year.

KENYA KAMBOWE