Windhoek: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah will depart for New York, United States of America, on Friday to participate in the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81). The Presidency announced that Nandi-Ndaitwah will engage in high-level meetings under the theme, 'Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.' She is scheduled to deliver Namibia's national statement during the UN General Debate on 23 September.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Nandi-Ndaitwah is expected to outline Namibia's perspectives on key international developments and advance the country's priorities within the broader context of Africa's development aspirations and the Sustainable Development Goals. The 81st session of the General Assembly, which opened on 08 September, will hold its High-Level General Debate from 22 to 26 September and on 28 September.

Namibia's participation in UNGA81 coincides with significant global challenges, such as ongoing conflicts, economic uncertainty, climate change, and growing pressure on the multilateral system. The session offers member states an opportunity to reflect on strengthening confidence in multilateral cooperation and ensuring the United Nations remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of all nations.

During the High-Level Week, Nandi-Ndaitwah will engage in bilateral and multilateral discussions on strategic issues important to Namibia, including peace and security, economic transformation, investment, infrastructure development, energy, and critical minerals. Other focal areas will include climate resilience, water security, global health, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.

Economic transformation and efforts to attract investment to support industrialisation, value addition, and employment creation are expected to be prominently discussed. Namibia aims to advocate for African countries to move beyond raw material export by enhancing their participation in regional and global value chains through beneficiation and domestic industrial development.

Nandi-Ndaitwah's schedule will also provide opportunities to strengthen bilateral relations, deepen cooperation with international partners, and engage the private sector on national development priorities, including those in the Sixth National Development Plan. She will be accompanied by Cabinet ministers and senior government officials.