WINDHOEK, June 14 (Xinhua) -- Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Saturday evening called for greater investment in youth, entrepreneurship and innovation, saying the country's future depends on inclusive economic growth and the active participation of all citizens in national development.
Speaking at the launch of the book Building Namibia's Future: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's Roadmap to Unity, Prosperity and Transformation in Windhoek, Nandi-Ndaitwah said Namibia must create more opportunities for young people through education, skills development and support for entrepreneurship.
She said young people are not only future leaders but also key partners in national development whose creativity, resilience and innovation can help shape the country's future.
Namibia must continue building an economy that creates jobs, attracts investment and supports local enterprises, while ensuring that the country's natural resources contribute meaningfully to the well-being of all citizens, she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said that although Namibia has maintained peace, political stability and democratic progress since independence, challenges such as unemployment, poverty and inequality still require urgent attention.
She urged citizens to actively participate in community development, national dialogue and policy implementation to help address socio-economic challenges and promote sustainable and inclusive growth.
The president also highlighted the role of literature and the creative industries in national development, describing them as important platforms for preserving history, encouraging innovation and promoting critical thinking.
She said the government remains committed to supporting writers, artists and other cultural practitioners through policies and programs aimed at fostering a knowledge-based society and expanding opportunities for women and youth.
Nandi-Ndaitwah further called on the private sector and development partners to work with the government to increase funding, training and opportunities for creative professionals and entrepreneurs. ■