Staff Reporter
In his maiden address at the 44th Ordinary Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, President Nangolo Mbumba of Namibia called for sustained regional cooperation and innovation to tackle the pressing economic and security challenges facing Southern Africa.
Speaking to Heads of State and Government, President Mbumba emphasized the importance of innovation in driving the region's industrialization and economic growth.
President Mbumba extended his gratitude to President Mnangagwa, who has assumed the chairmanship of SADC, expressing confidence that President Mnangagwa's leadership will continue to guide the region towards collective progress.
He highlighted the theme of the Summit, "Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustained Economic Growth and Development towards an Industrialised SADC," as a critical focus for the region's future.
Reflecting on his recent assumption of office following the passing on of former President Hage Geingob, President Mbumba paid tribute to Geingob's legacy of commitment to regional integration, peace, and economic development.
He thanked fellow SADC leaders for their solidarity with Namibia during this difficult transition, underscoring the importance of unity in times of adversity.
Looking forward, President Mbumba pledged to continue strengthening Namibia's commitment to the goals and principles of SADC.
He emphasized the need for regional leaders to work together to advance economic growth, address challenges, and improve the living conditions of their people.
The Namibian President highlighted Namibia's role as a co-facilitator of the upcoming Summit of the Future at the United Nations, representing the Global South, as an opportunity to advocate for a better world.
President Mbumba also informed the Summit of Namibia's upcoming Presidential and National Assembly elections, scheduled for November 27, 2024.
He affirmed Namibia's commitment to adhering to the SADC Principles and Guidelines for Democratic Elections and expressed his confidence in the process, following a successful goodwill mission by the SADC Electoral Advisory Council.
Turning to security concerns, President Mbumba addressed the on-going conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where armed groups, including the M23, continue to pose a threat to regional stability.
He called for a collective effort and stronger political will to bring peace to the DRC, emphasizing that the region's strategic goals cannot be achieved without peace, security, and good governance.
President Mbumba expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives while serving in the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) and the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC).
He praised the member States for their contributions to these missions, noting that the situation in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique has stabilized, allowing displaced persons to return to their homes.
The Namibian President expressed optimism for the Summit's deliberations, which he hopes will set the region on a path of democracy, peace, and sustainable development.
