Vision for Namibia
My vision is to establish Namibia as a prosperous, equitable, and sustainable nation where every citizen enjoys economic empowerment, social justice, and access to critical services and opportunities. This vision is grounded in the principles of cooperative economics, digital inclusivity, and participatory governance, all aimed at fostering national development and social cohesion.
Purpose
This manifesto outlines the work programme for myself, as Executive President, and my team (Executive Cabinet) of ministers, ten chosen with practical business experience, and a further five chosen from elected parliamentarians.
Core Values
The Executive Cabinet of Namibia shall prioritise government employees by motivating them to excel at their tasks, empowering them with financial and political support, monitoring implementation and providing continuous feedback to Namibia's citizens.
Economic Empowerment through Cooperative Models
The foundation of my economic policy will be the promotion and establishment of cooperatives across various sectors. Cooperatives offer a robust model for economic empowerment, allowing individuals to pool resources, share profits equitably, and collectively manage businesses that serve their communities.
Key initiatives include:
- Expansion of Savings and Credit Cooperatives: Building on the framework laid out in the establishment of the Namibian Savings and Credit Cooperative, we will expand access to affordable financial services. This will enable Namibians to save, invest, and borrow at fair rates, reducing reliance on high-interest lenders and promoting financial independence.
- Support for Agricultural and Worker Cooperatives: We will promote agricultural cooperatives to enhance food security and ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their products. Additionally, worker cooperatives will be supported in industries such as manufacturing and services, providing employment and ownership opportunities to Namibians.
- Development of Housing Cooperatives: Housing cooperatives will be encouraged to address the shortage of affordable housing. These cooperatives will allow members to collectively own and manage housing, ensuring secure and affordable living conditions.
Digital Inclusivity and Innovation
In the modern world, digital access is crucial for economic development, education, and social inclusion. We will strive to make Namibia a leader in digital innovation in Africa, ensuring that all Namibians, regardless of location or income level, have access to the internet and digital tools.
Key initiatives include:
- Expansion of ICT Infrastructure: We will accelerate the expansion of ICT infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to ensure every Namibian has access to high-speed internet. This will include the establishment of Community Information Resource Centers (CIRCs) in partnership with libraries, schools, and community centers.
- Promotion of ICT Literacy: To bridge the digital divide, we will implement nationwide ICT literacy programs, equipping Namibians with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy. These programs will target all age groups, from school children to adults seeking to upskill.
- Support for E-Government and Digital Services: We will expand e-government services to improve access to public services and increase government transparency. This will include the digitization of government records and the creation of online portals for accessing services.
Social Justice and Equality
Social justice is at the heart of our vision for Namibia. Every Namibian deserves to live with dignity, free from discrimination and with equal access to opportunities.
Key initiatives include:
- Gender Equality: We will enforce and enhance policies that promote gender equality in all spheres of life, including political representation, economic participation, and access to education. This includes ensuring that women are represented in all decision-making bodies and cooperatives.
- Youth Empowerment: The youth are the future of Namibia. We will invest in education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship programs tailored for young people, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to build successful futures.
- Health and Well-being: We will strengthen Namibia's healthcare system to ensure that all citizens have access to quality healthcare. This will involve increasing healthcare funding, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and training more healthcare professionals.
Environmental Sustainability
Sustainable development is essential to ensure that future generations inherit a healthy environment. We will prioritize environmental protection and the sustainable use of natural resources.
Key initiatives include:
- Renewable Energy: We will invest in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind to reduce Namibia's carbon footprint and provide affordable energy to all citizens.
- Sustainable Agriculture: We will promote sustainable farming practices that conserve water, protect soil health, and enhance biodiversity. This will ensure food security and protect the environment for future generations.
- Conservation Efforts: We will continue to support the conservation of Namibia's unique wildlife and natural landscapes, recognizing their value to both the environment and the economy.
Participatory Governance and Transparency
A strong, democratic Namibia requires active citizen participation and a transparent government. We will ensure that the government remains accountable to the people and that citizens have a voice in decision-making processes.
Key initiatives include:
- Decentralization of Power: We will further decentralize government functions to empower local governments, enabling them to better serve their communities. This will also encourage local participation in governance.
- Anti-Corruption Measures: We will strengthen anti-corruption laws and ensure that they are enforced without fear or favor. Transparency in government procurement and financial management will be prioritized.
- Civic Engagement: We will foster a culture of civic engagement by promoting voter education, encouraging public consultations on major policies, and ensuring that all Namibians understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
Conclusion
This manifesto outlines a bold vision for Namibia’s future—one where economic empowerment, digital inclusivity, social justice, environmental sustainability, and participatory governance are the pillars of our nation’s development. Together, we can build a Namibia that is prosperous, just, and inclusive for all its people.
Let us work together to make this vision a reality.
