President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for a fundamental shift in mindset among Namibians, stressing that mental transformation must go hand in hand with economic reform if the country is to achieve sustainable development.

Speaking during her visit to Dinapama Manufacturing and Supplies, the President said policies alone would not drive progress without a change in attitude and work ethic.

Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted the need for mental transformation as a foundation for meaningful economic change, arguing that without it, development efforts would remain ineffective.

She further noted that Namibia's challenges are less about financial resources and more about mindset, urging citizens to adopt a more proactive, disciplined and productive approach to their work and responsibilities.

"Money is not a problem, but the problem is in our minds. And that is really always my call, that how do we reform?

"But if we start slowly by slowly, and in the government where now we have to create a conducive environment, as we were told and truly saw from the forum, the bottlenecks are just too many. That's one. Number two, we are highly regulated as a country. Our laws are just too cumbersome. They are not really meant for a developing country. So that's my biggest challenge," she said.

She stressed the need to reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and create a more enabling environment for businesses.

While touring the Dinapama facility, Nandi-Ndaitwah praised the morale and dedication of the workers, describing the company as a model of local industrial success.

"They would like to see this company even expanding two or three times where it is now. Whether in the same place or different branches, but being a truly Namibian company, as a government, we must give it our full support. And that's what we have to do.

"So, please be proud workers of this proud company of yours. We appreciate the service. You can imagine all this work you are doing here today," she noted.

The President has repeatedly urged Namibia to invest in local manufacturing to retain value in the economy.

She encouraged workers to take pride in their role in building the nation, noting that locally produced goods contribute to national identity, self-reliance, and economic empowerment.

Dinapama Manufacturing and Supplies, which started with just a few machines, now employs over 500 workers and handles a high volume of orders.

Its Managing Director, David Namalenga, however, raised concerns over logistical challenges and reliance on imported materials.