Windhoek: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Wednesday urged those involved in the oil and gas sector to maintain transparency in their operations, emphasizing the importance of respecting Namibia and its citizens. Delivering a speech on her behalf at the third Namibia Oil and Gas Conference in Windhoek, she stressed that the country's natural resources are owned by the nation and should be developed in a way that serves the public good.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the event saw participation from various government leaders and industry stakeholders. Nandi-Ndaitwah called on industry participants to operate with honesty, integrity, and transparency, fostering respect for Namibia and its people. She expressed openness to industry players who approach Namibia with sincerity and a long-term partnership mindset.

The President also warned that the government will closely monitor developments to ensure adherence to laws, regulations, and policies. She emphasized a zero-tolerance stance towards practices that undermine the benefits entitled to the Namibian people. Nandi-Ndaitwah remarked that the oil and gas sector should unite and empower Namibians, rather than cause division or marginalization.

In her speech, she conveyed that success should be measured by the improvement in citizens' lives rather than the quantity of resources extracted. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Natangue Ithete, also addressed the conference, noting that Namibia's oil and gas discoveries have brought hope to Southern Africa. He highlighted that, if managed properly, these resources could significantly contribute to industrialization, infrastructure development, skills enhancement, and poverty reduction in the region.