Windhoek: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Monday warned that Namibia is operating in an increasingly volatile global environment marked by shifting alliances, conflicts and the selective application of international norms, calling on Cabinet to remain principled, united and adaptive. Opening the first Cabinet meeting of the 2026 calendar year, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the eighth administration was resuming work amid rising global uncertainty and complexity.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted the current global situation, mentioning shifting alliances, economic instability, conflicts, and the selective enforcement of global standards. She expressed concern over decisions affecting sovereign nations being made outside established multilateral frameworks, bypassing international consensus. This, she noted, is a sign of rapidly evolving geopolitics.

Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the unpredictability of current norms, suggesting that what is accepted today could be rejected in the future. She stressed that the changing global order challenges long-standing assumptions held by many nations. Despite these challenges, she reaffirmed Namibia's steadfast position on global affairs, emphasizing the importance of principles such as sovereignty, territorial integrity, equality among nations, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and respect for international law.

In response to these global shifts, Nandi-Ndaitwah called for a 'Business Unusual' approach, highlighting its urgency and relevance. She urged Cabinet members to rethink and adapt their strategies, acknowledging the difficulties ahead. Emphasizing empathy and accountability, she urged the Cabinet not to fail the people of Namibia in these challenging times.