Windhoek: Vice President Lucia Witbooi on Wednesday called for strengthened partnerships between government and churches to address Namibia's socio-economic challenges. Speaking at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Council of Churches in Namibia (CCN) in Windhoek on Wednesday, Witbooi said the country continues to face high unemployment, inequality, poverty, and food insecurity despite progress in democracy and development.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Witbooi emphasized that tackling these challenges requires a collective approach involving the government, private sector, civil society, and faith-based organizations. She underscored the importance of the meeting's theme, saying unity among churches enhances their ability to contribute to national development and social cohesion. Witbooi noted that the call for Christian unity has never been more relevant in a world increasingly confronted by economic uncertainty and social division.

The vice president said the government values its longstanding partnership with churches, which continue to significantly contribute to education, healthcare, humanitarian aid, and community development. She further urged religious institutions to assist in combating social ills such as corruption, substance abuse, and gender-based violence. Witbooi highlighted the need for churches to support young people, women, and children, emphasizing that the church must help bring hope, especially to the most vulnerable members of society.

She concluded by calling for continued collaboration to promote national unity, social cohesion, and inclusive development.