Turning President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s Vision into Economic Reality

President netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s state of the nation address last Thursday sets a bold and refreshing tone for Namibia’s future.

Her vision – centred on unity, youth empowerment, natural resource beneficiation, and sustainable development – is exactly what the country needs.

But turning that vision into reality requires more than powerful words. It demands action, coordination and accountability.

As someone working to deepen intra-African trade and economic partnerships, I celebrate the strategic intent.

Yet, to build real momentum, we must also confront the challenges that may hinder progress.

There are some key gaps and execution hurdles that need urgent attention:
 
PUBLIC-PRIVATE GAPS
 
The speech rightly emphasises the importance of public-private partnerships.

However, in practice, delays, bureaucratic red tap, and sluggish decision-making often deter private investors – especially in critical sectors like housing, logistics and energy.

For Namibia to position itself as a serious investment destination, it must streamline regulatory processes and actively promote investor facilitation.
 
ECONOMIC ZONES
 
The plan to establish Special Economic Zones (SEZs) with competitive tax incentives is commendable.

But tax breaks alone won’t be enough.

Economic zones must be anchored in robust infrastructure, the fast-tracking of approvals and investor-friendly policies.

Success stories in countries like Rwanda and Mauritius show that economic zones only thrive when supported by strong institutions and efficient service delivery.
SCALE YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
 
Establishing a youth fund and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) is a step in the right direction. However, financial assistance alone is not enough.

Young entrepreneurs need access to markets, mentorship, digital tools and practical business training.

The government and the private sector must collaborate to establish incubators and accelerator hubs that provide end-to-end support – not just capital.
 
REGIONAL TRADE
 
Namibia has made notable progress in infrastructure development.

Yet to fully emerge as a regional trade hub, there must be greater focus on enhancing connectivity with neighbouring countries – Angola, Zambia, Botswana and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In addition, Namibia should look eastward and deepen trade ties with East Africa, especially leveraging Kenya’s role as the region’s economic powerhouse.

This requires smoother border processes, modernised customs systems and collaborative trade infrastructure projects that link Namibia to the broader continental market.
 
AfCFTA ROADMAP
 
Namibia has gazetted its African Continental Free Trade Area tariff schedule – an important milestone. But what follows?

We need clarity on which sectors will drive cross-border trade, how SMEs will be supported to compete and what tools will boost intra-African exports.

The vision is there but a concrete, sector-specific roadmap is still missing.
 
ENERGY STRATEGY
 
Namibia’s potential in green energy, nuclear and hydrogen is immense.

Yet the national electricity grid remains outdated, and the policy environment for independent power producers is uncertain.

A coherent, bankable energy strategy – complete with clear regulations and predictable investment terms – is essential to attract serious players to the sector.
 
MONITOR PROGRESS
 
The president has outlined seven priority areas and eight economic enablers.

However, without clear timelines, measurable performance indicators or regular public updates, tracking progress remains a challenge.

Citizens and parliament must have access to transparent monitoring systems.

Regular progress reports would help build public trust and promote accountability.
 
NAMIBIA IS ON TRACK
 
The president’s direction is bold, the language is inclusive and the intention is commendable.

But bold dreams require bold delivery. What matters now is not what was said – but how it will be done.

Only through decisive action, collaboration and consistent follow-ups can we transform this vision into a tangible and prosperous reality for all Namibians.
 

• Elvis Mboya is the president of the Namibia-Kenya Chamber of Commerce and a former journalist in Namibia and Kenya.

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