Namibia's pioneering women-led leadership drew significant praise and recognition at the Commonwealth Business Summit.
The country was commended not only for placing women at the highest levels of government but also for its continued strides in promoting women's entrepreneurship and creating inclusive economic opportunities.
The three-day summit has drawn business leaders, policymakers, and trade experts from across the Commonwealth to explore key issues such as digital transformation, supply chain resilience, and investment opportunities.
Namibia stood out as a shining example of gender parity in governance, with delegates applauding its historic leadership lineup: President, Vice President, and National Assembly Speaker – all held by women.
Several speakers celebrated this as a breakthrough moment for Africa, with some even referencing Namibia's slogan as the "Land of the Brave", noting the pun was well earned.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey stressed the summit's focus on inclusion during her keynote address.
"It means putting women entrepreneurs and young people at the centre of our trade strategy. Namibia's example – with strong female leadership across government and industry – is an inspiration. And it means supporting small states and least developed countries to integrate more fully into global markets."
Namibia's Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, echoed similar sentiments, noting how the summit's themes align with Namibia's development agenda.
"I am delighted that this Business Summit places SMEs, women entrepreneurs, digital trade, and climate-conscious supply chains at the centre of our dialogue – themes that resonate with Namibia's own national priorities and reflect the kind of leadership that will define the next chapter of global inclusive and digitally integrated trade."
The summit aims to bridge the gap between policy and business, promoting collaboration and driving sustainable economic growth among the 56 Commonwealth member countries.