Outgoing NCCI president calls for private sector to take on greater responsibility

The outgoing president of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) has used the final speech of his tenure to call on the private sector to take on greater responsibility for developing the country.

Bisey /Uirab, who stepped down as NCCI president at the organisation’s annual general meeting on Friday, said there is great opportunity for productivity and growth in Namibia due to the country’s young population.

“The private sector must take ownership of its role. Engagement must move beyond dialogue into action, complementing the government’s efforts and ensuring delivery on national priorities,” he said.

/Uirab also said small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) are the backbone of the Namibian economy, although they are held back by access to finance and regulatory barriers.

“A stronger SME base strengthens the entire economic system. Representation across sectors must be about where growth and job creation will come from; and it will come from SMEs, supported by large enterprises in partnership,” he said.

The NCCI selected Vetumbuavi Mungunda as its new president at its annual general meeting.

Mungunda said his term will focus on strengthening the capacity of the chamber to participate in thought leadership dialogues, as well as to expand the inclusiveness and representation of the chamber.

“The NCCI will be deliberate in its actions, ensuring inclusiveness, strengthening institutional capacity, and mobilising business to speak as one unified voice,” Mungunda said.

According to a media statement by the NCCI on Sunday, the annual general meeting on Friday included induction training for NCCI branches.

NCCI chief executive TItus Nampala said the training aimed to increase governance capability and enable representatives of the chamber to serve their business communities.

“This initiative underscores NCCI’s renewed focus on reactivating its national footprint and deepening its connection with businesses across the country,” Nampala said.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.