President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has highlighted the inclusive benefits of the just concluded 39th African Union Summit's agenda for African countries, with Namibia poised to play a pivotal leadership role in water management, food security and sanitation.
Speaking after her arrival from the summit, President Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted climate change as one of the central issues discussed, noting that its effects are being felt across Africa.
Food security also featured on the summit agenda, particularly in light of the growing impact of climate change on water resources.
Another key focus of the summit was the full operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The President explained that the trade agreement calls for the beneficiation of Africa's natural resources, ensuring that countries move beyond exporting raw materials toward value addition and industrialisation.
She stressed that Namibia is well positioned to benefit from this shift, given its natural resource base.
Namibia is now also Africa's Champion for Water and Sanitation, which President Nandi-Ndaitwah described as both an honour and a responsibility, highlighting the country's leadership role in addressing water management and sanitation issues across the continent.
She further noted that on the 12th of this month, Namibia signed an agreement with the Global Water Project Organization to relocate its headquarters from Sweden to Namibia.
Hosting the organisation's headquarters, she said, strengthens Namibia's and Africa's capacity to drive continental efforts in water and sanitation.
She urged citizens to actively engage in discussions on water management for food security and improved sanitation.
"The president is the champion, but I want Namibians to know that the task is given to the Namibians. And I would really appeal to Namibians that all of them should follow this discussion on water management for food security in the continent, as well as to address the issue of sanitation. So that as a president now speaking on behalf of Namibians, wherever we are, we must all speak with one voice. It's a task not for Namibia, but it's a task we are given to represent the continent. And we must really do so. We are the land of the brave. We must make sure that that is done, and Africa feels the impact of our work."
The President reaffirmed Namibia's commitment to advancing Africa's development agenda and ensuring that the country plays a leading role in promoting sustainable solutions for climate resilience and water security.