Public enterprises urged to prioritise national development, youth empowerment

Chief Executive Officers, Board Chairpersons, and Executive Committee Members were urged to take their roles seriously in contributing to Namibia’s national development at the opening of the Public Enterprises CEOs Forum AGM in Walvis Bay on Wednesday.Forum Chairperson Fluksman Samuehl said there is a wealth of talent, knowledge, expertise, and goodwill within public enterprises. “We need to unlock that potential and work closely with the government to deliver on national objectives,” he said.Regarding youth empowerment, Samuehl stressed that it must remain a priority. “We know the government has made youth empowerment a priority. In this regard, NamibRe has taken the lead by contributing N$5 million to the National Youth Fund. I propose that this AGM give serious attention to how public enterprises can meaningfully contribute to the fund.“I appeal to the boards of public enterprises represented here to support their executive management when youth-focused proposals come before them. Let us stand behind our government in implementing initiatives aimed at empowering our youth.”Building partnershipsHeld under the theme “Energising Growth: Compete, Partner, Excel,” Samuehl said this challenges parastatals not only to improve operational performance and financial health, but also to forge partnerships, embrace innovation, and lead with purpose.“As public enterprise leaders, we are entrusted with state assets. We are responsible for delivering essential services. We must take seriously our role in contributing to Namibia’s national development through responsible governance, innovation, and visionary leadership.”He also emphasised that government-appointed boards must be based on merit. “Every appointment must be grounded in competence and merit if we are truly serious about moving this country forward. A board appointed on those principles is more likely to select capable, merit-based management. But if we do otherwise, we must accept the consequences.”AlignmentPresident Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, represented by Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi, added that public enterprise leaders must align their strategic and integrated business plans with the goals of NDP6.“You have a collective responsibility to lead with integrity, ensure quality service delivery, and champion inclusive, sustainable development for shared prosperity.”He added that the President is deeply concerned about ongoing reports of corruption within some public enterprises. “As emphasised in the State of the Nation Address, corruption diverts scarce resources from development and erodes public trust. It must be treated as an act of treason. The Eighth Administration will not tolerate corruption. Anyone engaged in such acts will be held accountable and face the full force of the law.”The AGM forms part of the Forum’s Sports Games, which are set to bring together more than 4,000 employees at the Vineta Stadium in Swakopmund on Thursday. This year, the Namibia Airports Company (NAC) and the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) are co-hosting the games.

Public enterprises urged to prioritise national development, youth empowerment

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Republikein 2025-12-17

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Public enterprises urged to prioritise national development, youth empowerment

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