Mariental Urban Councillor Iswarin Rooi, the first female representative for her constituency, stressed in her maiden address to the National Council that her presence in national leadership is not merely symbolic for women.
It sends a powerful message to every young Namibian that background, gender, or geography should never limit one's dreams.
"I want young girls to know that leadership spaces also belong to them and that their time is now," said Rooi. "At the same time, I want our young boys to understand that true leadership is built on discipline, respect, responsibility, and service to others. I remain committed to contributing meaningfully towards inclusive leadership, constructive engagement, and people-centred governance for the benefit of all Namibians."
Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology Wenzel Kavaka, marking his 40th day in office, expressed confidence in accelerating service delivery and bridging Namibia's digital divide.
"Coming from and understanding the reality of communal rural communities, I bring to the table an appreciation of the needs of our people and underserved areas, particularly in relation to the digital literacy programme, network connectivity expansion, and community media initiatives," said Deputy Minister Kavaka. "It is therefore my commitment to ensure that those programmes effectively reach the most vulnerable and strengthen the link between central government and communities."
Other MPs also delivered maiden addresses, expressing gratitude to executives and communities for entrusting them with national duty.
Daures Constituency Councillor Inecia Brandt, as Deputy Minister of Justice and Labour Relations, pledged to advance fairness, justice, labour dignity, and constitutional governance for all Namibians.
"Our people expect institutions that are responsive, transparent, and inclusive," she said. "They expect leadership that listens and acts exponentially. It is therefore our collective duty to ensure that public service remains people-centred and accountable."
Arandis Constituency Councillor Abiud Kapere urged urgency in national goals. "We don't have a lot of time. Vision 2030 is five years ahead of us, and we are going to be the people to account for its success because we will be there at the finishing line," he said. "We will have to answer to our people if it succeeds or if it fails. So let us live by the quote of Benjamin Franklin: 'We can do today what needs to be done today."