Namibian Presidency

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to Attend High-Level Conference in Ghana and Undertake a State Visit to Tanzania

Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, will depart for Accra, Ghana, on Wednesday, 17 June 2026, to join fellow Heads of State and Government at the High-Level Consultative Conference on the Next Steps to the Landmark United Nations Resolution on the Trafficking of Enslaved Africans. The Consultative Conference, scheduled to take place from 18 to 19 June 2026 in Accra, Ghana, is hosted by H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana and African Union Champion for Reparations.

The Conference will bring together global leaders, policymakers, scholars and stakeholders to chart a path forward following the adoption of the historic United Nations resolution that recognised the transatlantic slave trade and enslavement of Africans as crimes against humanity. The gathering seeks to advance international efforts towards historical recognition, reparatory justice, accountability and restitution for the enduring consequences of slavery and colonial exploitation.

A key outcome of the Conference will be the formulation and adoption of a Global Post-Adoption Framework to operationalise United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/80/250, translating its principles into a practical roadmap for reparatory justice, restitution and systemic global change.

The Conference carries particular historical significance for Africa and its diaspora, representing an important step towards addressing centuries of injustice and advancing a shared commitment to truth, justice, healing and human dignity.

For Namibia, the Conference presents an important opportunity to contribute to international discussions on reparative justice, as the country continues to advocate for a comprehensive framework to address the legacy of colonial dispossession and the genocide committed against the Ovaherero and Nama communities between 1904 and 1908. Namibia's engagement is also informed by its ongoing efforts to advance restorative justice and historical redress, including genocide negotiations with Germany.

From Ghana, President Nandi-Ndaitwah will proceed on a State Visit to the United Republic of Tanzania from 20 to 21 June 2026. The State Visit is aimed at further consolidating the longstanding bonds of friendship, solidarity and cooperation between Namibia and Tanzania, while exploring new opportunities for collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

Namibia and Tanzania enjoy warm and cordial diplomatic relations that date back to Namibia's liberation struggle. Tanzania played a pivotal role during that period by hosting many Namibians in exile and providing unwavering political, diplomatic and material support to the struggle for independence. The enduring ties forged during that historic period continue to serve as a strong foundation for cooperation between the two sister republics.

During the visit, President Nandi-Ndaitwah and her Tanzanian counterpart, H.E. Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, are expected to hold high-level bilateral engagements and oversee the signing of agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

The visit will also provide an opportunity to honour the shared history and sacrifices that underpin relations between Namibia and Tanzania. President Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to visit sites of historical significance in Kongwa District, including facilities that accommodated Namibian liberation fighters and Namibia's Founding President and Father of the Namibian Nation, Dr Sam Nujoma, during the liberation struggle. She will also pay tribute to the heroes and heroines whose contributions advanced the cause of freedom and self-determination across the African continent.

Since Namibia attained independence in 1990, the two countries have continued to strengthen their bilateral relations through cooperation in areas such as trade, education, defence, agriculture and regional integration, guided by a shared commitment to African unity, peace and sustainable development.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to return to Namibia on Monday, 22 June 2026.

MESSAGE BY HER EXCELLENCY DR. NETUMBO NANDI-NDAITWAH, ON THE OCCASION OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE AFRICAN CHILD, 16 JUNE 2026

Fifty years ago, on 16 June 1976, the streets of Soweto became a battleground between innocent schoolchildren and an unjust system determined to silence their voices. The tragic killing of children, including the young Hector Pieterson, exposed the brutality of apartheid to the world and transformed a student protest into a defining moment in Africa’s liberation history.

The children of Soweto were not merely protesting against a language policy. They were standing up against a system that sought to dictate the limits of their future, a system that denied them the freedom to dream, to choose their own path and to realise their full potential. Their courage was born from the belief that every child deserves the right to quality education, dignity, opportunity and the freedom to become whatever they aspire to be.

Their sacrifice helped pave the way for the freedoms many African children enjoy today. It reminds us that the opportunities available to our children were hard won and should never be taken for granted. Because of the struggles of those who came before them, today’s African child can dream without limits, pursue knowledge without barriers and aspire to become a teacher, engineer, farmer, entrepreneur, scientist, artist, doctor, leader or anything else their talents and ambitions allow.
The courage displayed by the children of Soweto resonated far beyond the borders of South Africa.

It inspired freedom movements across the continent, including Namibia’s own struggle for independence, and strengthened the resolve of a generation determined to secure justice, dignity and freedom for all.

Today, as we commemorate the Day of the African Child, we honour the memory of those young heroes whose sacrifice helped shape a better future for millions of African children. Their legacy reminds us that the rights and wellbeing of children must remain at the centre of our efforts to build peaceful, inclusive and prosperous societies.

This year’s theme, “Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa,” highlights the fundamental responsibility we share to create conditions in which every child can thrive. Access to clean water, proper sanitation and hygiene is not a privilege, but a fundamental human right and an essential foundation for health, education, dignity and development.

As we celebrate the African Child, we must also confront the realities that continue to threaten their wellbeing. Child abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence remain unacceptable violations of the rights of our children. We must speak out against these injustices and work collectively to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, caring and supportive environment.

The African Child is one of our continent’s greatest assets. Investing in children is investing in Africa’s future. Since Independence, Namibia has remained committed to expanding opportunities for children through education, healthcare and social protection, recognising that the development of our nation depends on the development of its people.

Through the Eighth Administration’s commitment to subsidised tertiary education at public institutions, we continue to invest in the potential of our young people, empowering them to acquire the knowledge, skills and capabilities necessary to contribute meaningfully to national development and to shape the future of our country.

The responsibility to protect, guide and empower our children belongs to all of us. Parents, families, communities, educators, faith-based organisations, civil society and government must work together to ensure that every child is valued, protected and given the opportunity to realise their full potential.

As we mark fifty years since the Soweto Uprising, let us honour the legacy of those brave young people not only in remembrance, but through action. Let us build a Namibia and an Africa where every child is safe, educated, healthy, respected and empowered to realise their full potential.
I wish all African children a meaningful Day of the African Child.

Happy Day of the African Child.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah today paid tribute to the enduring legacy of Ombara Kahimemua Nguvauva during the commemoration of the 130th anniversary of the Battle of Otjunda (Sturmfeld), which culminated in his ex*****on at Okahandja on 12 June 1896.

The President was accompanied by the First Gentleman, Lieutenant General (Rtd) Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah. Also in attendance were Prime Minister Dr Elijah Ngurare, Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa, Chairperson of the Council of Traditional Leaders Chief Gaob Immanuel /Gaseb, Ombara Eben Tjozohongo II Nguvauva, Chief of the Ovambanderu Traditional Authority, Members of Parliament, Governors, regional and local authority leaders, traditional leaders, and members of the community.

Addressing the gathering at Okahandja in the Otjozondjupa Region, President Nandi-Ndaitwah described the occasion as both a solemn remembrance and a celebration of the courage, resilience and visionary leadership demonstrated by Ombara Kahimemua Nguvauva and other sons and daughters of the soil who resisted colonial occupation and defended the sovereignty of their motherland.

The President said Namibia’s identity as the Land of the Brave is rooted in the sacrifices of leaders such as Ombara Kahimemua Nguvauva, whose unwavering commitment to freedom, justice and human dignity continues to inspire generations of Namibians.

She called on all Namibians to reject tribalism, regionalism and all forms of discrimination, and to embrace the values of unity, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence. The President stressed that safeguarding Namibia’s hard won freedom requires collective responsibility, respect for democratic institutions and a shared commitment to nation building and inclusive development.

Reaffirming Government’s commitment to working closely with Traditional Authorities, President Nandi-Ndaitwah said traditional leaders remain vital partners in promoting social cohesion, preserving cultural heritage and advancing development in communities across the country. She encouraged them to continue prioritising the welfare of their people and to support initiatives aligned with Government’s key priorities and the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).

On the issue of the 1904–1908 Genocide, the President reiterated that discussions between Namibia and Germany remain ongoing and expressed hope that a dignified and mutually acceptable understanding would be reached. She also underscored the significance of Genocide Remembrance Day, observed annually on 28 May, as an important platform to honour the victims, preserve historical memory and strengthen national unity.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah urged Namibians to remain faithful custodians of the legacy left by those who fought against injustice and oppression, saying the commemoration should serve as a unifying moment that reinforces the spirit of One Namibia, One Nation.

Honouring Ombara Kahimemua Nguvauva and the countless known and unknown heroes and heroines of Namibia’s history, the President called on all citizens to work together in building a prosperous, inclusive and united nation for present and future generations.

Ahead of the Ovambanderu community’s commemoration of the 130th anniversary of the ex*****on of the first Ovambanderu Chief, Ombara Kahimemua Nguvauva “Hiakungairi”, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah arrived at the Ovambanderu Shrine “Ozongungu” in Okahandja, Otjozondjupa Region, where she paid homage at his grave and attended the tombstone unveiling ceremony of Acting Chief Gerson Kunomundu Katjirua.

In keeping with Ovambanderu customs, the President joined family members and the Traditional Authority in the laying on of hands ritual, symbolising the invocation of blessings from the ancestors. She also laid a wreath at the tombstone of Acting Chief Gerson Kunomundu Katjirua in tribute to his life and leadership.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah Launches “Building Namibia’s Future”

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah this evening officially launched Building Namibia’s Future: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s Roadmap to Unity, Prosperity and Transformation, describing the publication as a call to action for all Namibians to play their part in building an inclusive and prosperous nation.

Speaking at the launch ceremony in Windhoek, the President commended author Mrs Ndahafa Mutongolume for producing a work that captures key themes of leadership, nation-building and development, while inspiring citizens to actively shape the country’s future.

“A writing nation is a reading nation, a reading nation is a knowledgeable nation, a knowledgeable nation is a productive nation, and a productive nation is a prosperous nation,” the President said.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah noted that the book reflects values that are closely aligned with the priorities of the Eighth Administration, including ethical leadership, accountability, service, education, skills development, entrepreneurship and innovation.

She emphasised that nation-building is a shared responsibility, calling on all Namibians, particularly young people, to contribute their talents and energies towards the country’s development.

“The future of Namibia is in our own hands, and each of us must bring forth our talents and make our contribution,” she said.

The President also reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting Namibia’s creative industries and encouraged stronger partnerships to create opportunities for writers, artists and cultural practitioners.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah subsequently declared Building Namibia’s Future: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s Roadmap to Unity, Prosperity and Transformation officially launched.

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah today held bilateral discussions with His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa of the Republic of South Africa in Johannesburg as part of her working visit to South Africa.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the two leaders to reaffirm the longstanding and fraternal relations between Namibia and South Africa, rooted in a shared history of liberation and strengthened through decades of cooperation and mutual support.

Namibia and South Africa continue to enjoy excellent bilateral relations characterised by regular high level engagement, strong political cooperation and growing economic ties. As neighbours and partners, the two countries remain committed to advancing regional integration and development through platforms such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU).

The leaders noted the important role of the Namibia–South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in driving bilateral cooperation and monitoring the implementation of agreed programmes and initiatives. They further welcomed the broad scope of collaboration between the two countries, which is underpinned by more than 150 agreements and memoranda of understanding across various sectors, including trade, defence, education, infrastructure, energy and diplomacy.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah and President Ramaphosa also exchanged views on matters of regional, continental and international importance, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation for the benefit of the peoples of Namibia and South Africa.