PM urges unity, equitable development in Independence Day message

Prime Minister Dr Elijah Ngurare has called for unity, fair resource distribution, and accelerated national development as Namibia marked its 36th Independence Day, warning that poverty and inequality remain pressing challenges despite progress.

Delivering the keynote address at Oshakati Independence Stadium on Saturday, Ngurare stressed that the country’s resources must benefit all citizens while lawmakers prioritise legislation that improves livelihoods.

“As parliamentarians… let us recommit ourselves to the unfinished work,” he urged, calling on political parties in the National Assembly of Namibia to work collectively in the national interest.

Acknowledging that independence brought freedom and sovereignty, Ngurare noted that many Namibians still face poverty, unemployment, and limited access to basic services. He called for deliberate social and economic transformation to protect the country’s hard-won independence.

He also paid tribute to liberation struggle veterans, highlighting the sacrifices and resilience that secured Namibia’s freedom, and encouraged citizens to uphold unity despite political differences.

Development highlights in Oshana

Ngurare highlighted investments in the Oshana Region, including rural electrification, water infrastructure, healthcare, and education. He noted that the Development Bank of Namibia financed projects worth nearly N$978.7 million in the region, with agricultural support exceeding N$8.7 million for communal farmers.

Infrastructure improvements, including classrooms, roads, and water systems, have enhanced living conditions, though housing shortages and agricultural water supply remain challenges. The Prime Minister outlined plans to expand irrigation through the Etaka Canal extension, roll out more capital projects, and implement employment initiatives such as food- and cash-for-work programmes.

Youth and entrepreneurship

Ngurare encouraged young Namibians to take advantage of opportunities like subsidised tertiary education and the National Youth Development Fund (NYDF), which offers collateral-free loans to support entrepreneurship. The fund, initially allocated N$257 million, is expected to grow to N$500 million annually over five years, targeting sectors such as agriculture, agro-processing, and sustainable projects.

“Young people must apply in greater numbers,” he warned, highlighting the risk of underutilisation of available funds.

Hofni Iipinge, Oshana regional governor, called on Namibians to embrace unity and reflection, noting that Independence Day should be both a celebration and a moment to assess the country’s journey since 1990.

He praised the decision to host regional celebrations in line with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s directive, bringing the festivities closer to communities.

“Independence is not an event of the past, but a continuous journey,” Iipinge said, emphasising that ongoing nation-building requires collective effort from all citizens to advance development, economic growth, and social progress.