Namibia overregulated like a developed country, says Nandi-Ndaitwah

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says Namibia’s regulatory environment is too rigid and resembles that of developed countries, making it difficult to drive meaningful economic progress.

She describes the situation as one of her biggest challenges, noting that many of the country’s laws are not suited to a developing economy.

“These regulations are of a developed country. They are not for a developing country,” she says.

Nandi-Ndaitwah made the remarks on Tuesday while responding to questions on economic transformation during a visit to Dinapama Manufacturing and Supplies in Windhoek.

She stressed that reform and transformation are essential to unlocking economic growth, adding that Namibia must rethink traditional approaches to productivity and work culture.

According to the president, the country needs to move away from rigid working patterns, noting that some global economies operate around the clock.

However, she clarified that this should not be understood as promoting exploitation.

She urged Namibians to move away from the traditional 08h00 to 17h00 work schedule, noting that people work 24 hours in countries such as China and Singapore.

She said she does not want slavery, but transformation is needed to develop the country.

She emphasised that meaningful economic change will require a shift in mindset, warning that without mental transformation, policies alone will not yield results.

Reflecting on her visit to the factory, Nandi-Ndaitwah said she was encouraged by the sense of pride among workers, noting that job satisfaction plays a key role in productivity.

“When people are proud of their work, production increases,” she said.

Established in 2009, Dinapama Manufacturing and Supplies is a fully Namibian-owned garment manufacturer employing about 500 people, the majority of whom are women. The company produces a range of items, including uniforms, corporate wear and bags.

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