Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah urges Namibia’s heads of mission to serve with integrity and vision

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, State House, 18 September 2025

I warmly welcome you all to the State House. 

It is good to see all of you, the veterans of our diplomatic services.

As you are seasoned diplomats who have been commissioned before as heads of mission, you know that once an ambassador, always an ambassador. Today, I am not commissioning you, but giving you your new charge of office. I will also commission a new group of heads of mission once accreditation to their posts is finalised.

Today presents an opportunity to reaffirm our shared commitment to national development and global connectivity as we recommit to working together for a more prosperous Namibia.

When I assumed office on 21 March this year, I pledged to the Namibian people that the government, in line with the Swapo Party election manifesto now incorporated into the NDP 6, would deliver a national development agenda with tangible impact. At the heart of this promise is placing our people at the centre of policy implementation through service delivery.

In line with the Namibian Constitution, I formally announce your appointments as heads of mission to your respective receiving states and international organisations.

You assume this responsibility during shifting geopolitical dynamics, marked by uncertainty, diminishing global security and stability, and rising economic protectionism. I appointed you based on your experience to navigate our bilateral relations during this period. Your appointment is for four years, during which I expect you to deliver on our commitments. Namibia must maximise the benefits of bilateral relations, particularly in economic diplomacy.

This is the context in which you will serve. Many of you are seasoned professionals who have represented our country with distinction. I have entrusted you with this responsibility because of your proven competence and dedication to Namibia.

Your appointment is not simply a privilege; it is a solemn trust. You are called to serve with integrity, dedication, and patriotism. While the minister of international relations and trade will provide specific portfolios, your broader duty is to align your work with Namibia’s national priorities.

As the late Theo-Ben Gurirab reminded us, foreign policy is an extension of domestic policy. Your guiding compass will remain the Namibian Constitution, Vision 2030, the sixth National Development Plan, and the policy on international relations and cooperation.

I urge you to identify opportunities for Namibians, particularly the youth. Work to secure market access for our products and connect citizens with skilled individuals and enterprises, including in the creative sector. Be bridges linking Namibia’s emerging talents with global opportunities.

Namibia values diplomacy in fostering people-to-people contact and strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations. As envoys, you are representatives of the government and custodians of enduring ties between Namibia and your countries of accreditation.

As you take up your assignments, remain mindful of Namibia’s historic journey. Principles of pan-Africanism and international solidarity are rooted in our experience of dispossession and struggle for self-determination. The freedom we enjoy today was bought at a high price by many forebears who endured sacrifice and hardship. Let their legacy inspire your decisions and actions.

Remember that you serve not only the government but also carry the dreams and aspirations of all Namibians, especially those in your areas of jurisdiction. Represent them with dignity, so they may stand proudly with you.

Serve as role models, particularly for the youth. Let your conduct inspire the next generation to pursue careers in diplomacy and public service. Mobilise support for humanitarian projects in the regions assigned to your missions.

As diplomats, remain strategic, responsive, and forward-thinking. Project Namibia’s image as a country built on integrity, professionalism, service delivery, and economic diplomacy.

In conclusion, discharge your duties with honour, wisdom, and dedication. Strengthen Namibia’s standing as a trusted and respected partner internationally. You carry more than Namibia’s flag; you carry its hopes, dreams, sacrifices, and future. Let your service be marked by integrity, courage, vision, and dignity.

Go forth and make friends among nations. Spread peace and share Namibia’s potential with the world. Challenges will arise, but I have full confidence in your abilities. Always remember national priorities and the needs of our people.

Serve Namibia with honour. Serve it with pride. Serve it with dignity. Let our flag fly higher.

I thank you.

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