Namibia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Penda Naanda reaffirmed the country's commitment to working with all partners to build peaceful, just and inclusive societies.
This is to ensure that the commitments of the Pact for the Future are translated into tangible benefits for present and future generations.
Speaking during the Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) Conference that took place at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Naanda says that as a young democracy founded on the principles of peace, human rights and the rule of law, Namibia recognises that achieving SDG 16 requires partnership that brings together government, civil society, youth, academia, the private sector and internal partners.
"We have learnt that effective partnerships are those that place people at the centre, leveraging innovation, and ensure that communities are active participants rather than passive beneficiaries. A notable example is Namibia's collaboration with international partners, research institutions and law enforcement agencies to combat environmental crime. The recent establishment of the Wood Identification and Screening Centre (WISC), the first of its kind in Africa, demonstrates how science, technology and multi-stakeholder cooperation can strengthen the rule of law, improve enforcement capacities, and combat illicit trafficking in wildlife and forest products."
Furthermore, Naanda says the implementation of SDGs through the Sixth National Development Plan, Namibia, is strengthening accountable institutions, expanding digital public service, promoting citizen participation and enhancing access to justice.
"Looking ahead, Namibia believes that accelerating progress on SDG 16 requires three priorities: first, increasing investment in institutional capacity and digital governance; second, creating more opportunities for youth and civil society participation in decision-making; and third, strengthening international cooperation and knowledge-sharing to address transnational challenges, including corruption, organised crime and environmental crimes."
Held under the theme "Driving transformation and coordinated action for sustainable development", the conference focused on accelerating progress for Goal 16 of peace, justice, and strong institutions.