Swakopmund:President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for prioritizing local entrepreneurs in investment opportunities, emphasizing that Namibia's economic development should be led by its own citizens. She also expressed openness to foreign investment that supports industrialization and job creation.

According to NAMPA, Nandi-Ndaitwah spoke at a town hall meeting in Swakopmund, highlighting the importance of giving priority to local entrepreneurs, followed by African investors. She asserted that Africa's development must be driven by Africans, regardless of their racial background, and stressed the importance of local involvement in economic growth.

The president pointed out that Namibia is preparing to attract investment while ensuring that local businesses reap economic benefits. She mentioned the Aliko Dangote tank farm and regional pipeline project in Walvis Bay, valued at N$42 billion, as an example of investment that aligns with Namibia's industrial ambitions and contributes to regional development.

Nandi-Ndaitwah linked Dangote's investment vision to the African Union's Agenda 2063, aiming to transform Africa into an industrialized continent. She urged Namibian businesses to collaborate, as cooperation would strengthen enterprises and maximize benefits from investment opportunities.

Additionally, Nandi-Ndaitwah is working to enhance collaboration between the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) and regional chambers. She recalled her past efforts to establish business links between Namibian and Angolan entrepreneurs, stressing that cooperation is crucial to avoid the fragmentation that could undermine collective business interests.