Namibian Employers Back Global Call for Inclusive, Job-Driven Growth

The Namibian Employers’ Federation (NEF) has endorsed the recent Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, supporting its focus on poverty reduction, decent work, and social inclusion.

The NEF emphasised that these pillars align closely with Namibia’s national development goals.

Employers recognise that eradicating poverty, creating sustainable employment, and strengthening social cohesion require a national effort – one that depends on close cooperation between government, labour, and business.

While expressing full support for the summit’s ambitions, as now reflected in the Doha Political Declaration, the NEF reiterated that lasting progress must rest on practical and transparent policymaking.

The NEF believes achieving the three pillars of social development depends on a strong and competitive private sector, supported by clear, predictable, and inclusive processes.

The federation stressed that effective social dialogue is built on trust – and that trust grows when policy reform processes are transparent and well-communicated.

Employers, therefore, call for clear timelines and consistent consultation frameworks when developing and implementing labour policies and legislation.

Transparent milestones and adequate consultation periods allow all stakeholders to prepare effectively, contribute meaningfully, and align their efforts toward shared outcomes.

The federation further highlighted that a thriving business environment is essential to sustainable development.

Business, including small and medium-sized enterprises, which form the backbone of Namibia’s economy, need access to finance, reduced administrative burdens, and policies that enable them to grow, innovate, and create employment.

We all want a Namibia where people have work, skills, and opportunity and to achieve that, we must work together and create conditions that allow businesses, especially small and medium-sized ones, to grow sustainably.

When enterprises thrive, they generate employment, build skills, and contribute directly to national development.

The NEF reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of tripartism and meaningful social dialogue, noting that collaboration among employers, labour, and government remains the foundation of Namibia’s economic and social stability.

The federation calls for continued partnership to translate the global commitments of the world summit into tangible actions – reducing poverty, expanding decent work, and strengthening social inclusion for all Namibians, in a business-friendly environment where all can thrive.

– Elias Shikongo is the president of the Namibian Employers’ Federation.

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