Nandi-Ndaitwah urges businesses to drive growth

SWAKOPMUND – President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has urged Namibian businesses to focus on value addition, innovation and market expansion to create jobs and strengthen the country’s economy.

The Head of State was speaking at the Swakopmund International Trade Expo (Swaitex) 2026 at The Dome in Swakopmund on Friday.

The popular Swakopmund Trade Expo returned after a two-year hiatus. Spearheaded by the Namibian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, this year’s event was held under the theme, “Powering Africa’s Next Economy: Innovation, Inclusion & Industrial Growth”, aligning with Namibia’s ambition to build a diversified and competitive economy.

Addressing exhibitors at the expo, the president said that trade exhibitions should translate into tangible business opportunities, partnerships and employment. According to the president, expos, which have provided a platform for trade, investment and enterprise development for a decade, should be measured by the businesses and partnerships that continue beyond the event.

“Trade exhibitions are far more than showcases of products and services. They are practical marketplaces where producers meet buyers, businesses test ideas, investors identify opportunities, and entrepreneurs build relationships that can lead to contracts and partnerships and create jobs,” she said.

She then encouraged entrepreneurs to position themselves to supply emerging industries, including oil and gas, renewable energy, green hydrogen and rare earth minerals, as the country prepares to implement its local content policy.

The president noted that the Sixth National Development Plan prioritises economic diversification, value addition and employment creation, while calling for a shift from exporting raw materials to processing, manufacturing and producing higher-value goods.

Nandi-Ndaitwah added that Namibia’s National Trade Policy for 2023–2030 highlights export diversification, market expansion, access to finance, and improved competitiveness for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

Therefore, she said Namibia should leverage its strategic location, the Port of Walvis Bay, and transport corridors to connect local producers and neighbouring landlocked countries to regional and international markets.

“The African Continental Free Trade Area also presents opportunities for Namibian businesses to expand across the continent. However, companies must meet product and safety standards, improve packaging and deliver consistently at competitive prices,” she appealed.

Adding that there is a need for stronger partnerships between government, businesses, workers and financial institutions to address barriers to investment and sustainable job creation.

She invited business leaders and investors to attend the second Namibia Public-Private Forum, scheduled for 25 to 27 November 2026.

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