Vice President of Namibia

Vice President Lucia Witbooi, delivered the keynote address at the //Kharas Region’s 36th Independence Day commemoration in Karasburg, held under the theme “Beyond 36: For a Prosperous Future.” In her address, the Vice President called on Namibians to move beyond reflection to action, urging unity of purpose, accelerated socio-economic transformation, and inclusive development to improve the quality of life for all. Vice President reaffirmed Government’s commitment to youth empowerment, education, infrastructure development and sustainable economic growth, while encouraging citizens to safeguard the gains of Independence and actively contribute to nation-building.

Her Excellency Lucia Witbooi, Vice President this evening in Karasburg joined by family and community members as well as Attorney General Festus Mbandeka and Ombudsman Basilius Dyakugha watch the special documentary produced in celebration of her birthday. Following the screening, the Vice President expressed heartfelt appreciation, noting that she had not expected her appointment and had approached her leadership journey with humility and dedication. She thanked her family, the Namibian people, and her staff for their unwavering support. She further emphasised that hard work, commitment, and discipline were values she came to respect when she joined Parliament and expressed gratitude to all former Namibian Presidents for shaping her political journey.

In commemoration of her birthday, which coincides with Namibia’s Independence Day on 21 March, the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) has produced a special documentary honouring Her Excellency, Vice President Lucia Witbooi. The documentary reflects on the Vice President’s life of service, leadership journey, and contribution to Namibia’s development. It features interviews with former colleagues, current associates, family members, and political leaders, who share personal reflections and insights into her character, values, and dedication to nation-building. The documentary offers a rare glimpse into the Vice President’s story, highlighting her commitment to unity, community empowerment, and inclusive development. The documentary is currently broadcasting live on NBC 1 and will repeat at 22h00 on NBC 2 tonight, 21 March 2026.

In commemoration of her birthday, which coincides with Namibia’s Independence Day on 21 March, the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) has produced a special documentary honouring Her Excellency, Vice President Lucia Witbooi. The documentary reflects on the Vice President’s life of service, leadership journey, and contribution to Namibia’s development. It features interviews with former colleagues, current associates, family members, and political leaders, who share personal reflections and insights into her character, values, and dedication to nation-building. The documentary offers a rare glimpse into the Vice President’s story, highlighting her commitment to unity, community empowerment, and inclusive development. The documentary is currently broadcasting live on NBC 1 and will repeat at 22h00 on NBC 2 tonight, 21 March 2026.

Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who continues to guide our nation with dedication and visionary leadership. In the same breath, we also owe it to our forefathers and mothers, the like of Captain Hendrik Witbooi, Jacob Marengo, Mandume Ndemufayo, Samuel Maharero, Simon Kooper, Anna Kakurukaze Mungunda, Jan Jonker Afrikaner, Abraham Morris and many other heroes and heroines who led the early resistance fight against the foreign occupation of our country. Their sacrifices laid the foundation of the peaceful, democratic and stable Namibia we are proudly celebrating today. As we commemorate this historic day, let us reaffirm our commitment to unity of purpose. Unity is the foundation upon which we can build greater prosperity, deepen social cohesion and secure a brighter future for generations to come. Let us work together, as government, private sector, civil society, traditional leaders, the youth and all citizens, to advance development, strengthen our democracy and uplift the living standards of all our people. As we move beyond 36 years, let us embrace innovation, strengthen resilience, and promote economic diversification and inclusivity to ensure no Namibian is left behind. Happy 36th Independence Anniversary to you all. May God bless the Republic of Namibia. I thank you.

Moreover, Youth empowerment remains central to our development agenda. As a responsible government, we established the National Youth Development Fund to provide financial and technical support to young entrepreneurs across the country. I therefore urge the youth of the //Kharas Region and beyond to seize these opportunities offered by the National Youth Development Fund. To our young people here in //Kharas Region and other parts of the country visit your nearest Governors’ Offices and apply for these programmes to improve your livelihoods and actively participate in the economic development of your country. Fellow Namibians; Since Independence, Namibia has recorded significant achievements in the country, including //Kharas Region. Just on Thursday, I officiated at the inauguration of the state – of – the – arts Keetmanshoop Vocational Training Centre. The opening of this centre in Keetmanshoop will boost the economy of the region, uplift and empower young people, to be active contributors to our country’s economic growth. As I did on Thursday, I invite all parents especially from the //Kharas Region to encourage our children to take the opportunities offered at the Keetmanshoop Vocational Training Centre in order to contribute meaningfully to our country’s human resource development. This and other developments in the //Kharas Region demonstrate our government’s commitment in ensuring balanced national progress in all Regions of our country. The //Kharas Region has emerged from a historically marginalised area into a dynamic and strategic economic hub, reflecting the Government’s sustained commitment to inclusive development and regional integration. The region has recorded significant progress across key sectors, including the expansion of export-oriented agriculture along the Orange River, most notably table grape production in Aussenkehr and agri-processing linked to the Naute and Neckartal Dam projects alongside continued growth in mining, fisheries, and tourism. Major investments in infrastructure have strengthened connectivity, service delivery, and institutional capacity, while development has increasingly reached smaller settlements through improved water supply, sanitation, electrification, and road networks. At the same time, access to healthcare has expanded through the growing network of clinics and health facilities in the region. The government continues to renovate and build new clinics to make health accessible to the residents of //Kharas region. Positioned within the Lüderitz–Aus Development Corridor, the region is now entering a new phase of industrialisation, driven by large-scale renewable energy and green hydrogen initiatives, which are expected to accelerate economic growth, create employment, and reinforce the //Kharas Region’s role as a key contributor to Namibia’s sustainable development trajectory. While the //Kharas Region has made notable progress since Independence, it continues to face structural challenges, including limited value addition and industrial activity, as well as persistent gaps in water, sanitation, and housing, compounded by fiscal constraints. In response, the government is advancing key projects such as infrastructure upgrades in Grunau, water expansion in Ariamsvlei, water system rehabilitation in Noordoewer and Aussenkehr, and the servicing of plots in Aus. The strategic development of Aus as a gateway within the Lüderitz–Keetmanshoop corridor, alongside broader investments in settlement servicing and water infrastructure, reflects a continued commitment to accelerating inclusive and sustainable regional development. Fellow Namibians; As we celebrate this day, we equally honour the immense contributions of our former Heads of State, His Excellency Dr. Hifikepunye Pohamba, His Excellency Dr. Hage Geingob (May His Soul Rest in Peace), and His Excellency Dr. Nangolo Mbumba, as well as our current first female Head of State,

KEYNOTE ADDRESS BY EXCELLENCY LUCIA WITBOOI VICE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA ON THE OCCASION OF THE COMMEMORATION OF THE 36TH INDEPENDENCE DAY “BEYOND 36: FOR A PROSPEROUS FUTURE” SATURDAY, 21 MARCH 2026 KARASBURG, //KHARAS REGION Fellow Namibians; I am greatly honoured to join you this morning here in Karasburg, //Kharas Region, to commemorate the 36th Anniversary, of our nation’s independence, under the theme “Beyond 36: For a Prosperous Future.” Exactly thirty-six years ago, on the 21st March 1990, Namibia attained its independence and sovereignty after a long and bitter struggle for freedom. Our independence was achieved through the courageous, resilience and sacrifices of Namibia’s brave sons and daughters, under the leadership of the Founding President and Father of the Namibian Nation, His Excellency Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma. Fellow Namibians; This years’ theme “Beyond 36: For a Prosperous Future” calls upon us to move from reflection to action. It urges us to build on the solid foundations laid since Independence and to accelerate socio-economic transformation for the benefit of all Namibians. As a nation, we must emulate the selflessness, unity of purpose and resilience demonstrated by our forbearers. Their legacy should inspire us to serve the best interests of all Namibians in every corner of our country, including the //Kharas Region. The Government of the Republic of Namibia remains committed to inclusive development through the implementation of the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which serves as our roadmap towards the attainment of our goals as contained in Vision 2030. Through this plan, we aim to strengthen economic growth, reduce inequalities, create employment and improve the quality of life for all our people. Today, we celebrate our hard-won freedom and independence in the true spirit of One Namibia, One Nation. This enduring principle reminds us that unity of purpose remains our greatest strength, from which we must draw inspiration. Regardless of our backgrounds, cultures or political affiliations, we are bound together by a shared destiny and a collective responsibility to build a prosperous Namibia and we should continue to foster that unity. As a nation, we have built a stable constitutional democracy anchored on the rule of law, respect for human rights, good governance, peace and political stability, which have enabled us to invest in national development, expand social services and promote sustainable economic growth. These achievements are a testament to our collective commitment to nationbuilding and social progress. Fellow Namibians; Under the 8th Administration, the government has prioritised seven key areas: agriculture, sports development, youth empowerment, quality education and training, creative industries, quality healthcare and social welfare, as well as land, housing and sanitation. These priorities are aimed at accelerating service delivery, stimulating economic activity and improving livelihoods within the next four years of the current administration. These strategic priorities are guided by the core leadership values of Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo NandiNdaitwah, which are: pragmatism, accountability, integrity, meritocracy and inclusivity. We should live by these values to ensure the government remains responsive, transparent and people-centred in its service to the nation. Furthermore, on social progression, education remains one of the most powerful tools for social transformation. The government continues to promote and provide inclusive access to education through the subsidized tertiary education at public institutions of higher learning. This policy ensures that all Namibians, regardless of their socio-economic background, have equal opportunities to acquire knowledge and skills that empower them to contribute meaningfully to national development.

Her Excellency Lucia Witbooi, has arrived at Karasburg Stadium in the ǁKharas Region, to attend the regional celebrations marking Namibia’s 36th Independence Anniversary. The Vice President joins regional leadership, traditional authorities, and community members in commemorating the nation’s independence, while reflecting on the country’s democratic journey, unity, and shared commitment to inclusive development.

Her Excellency, Vice President Lucia Witbooi, engaged with residents of ǂGabes during her visit, extending an invitation to the community to join the nation in commemorating Namibia’s 36th Independence Anniversary. Addressing community members, the Vice President called for unity and social cohesion, encouraging residents to remain steadfast and not be swayed by divisive influences. She emphasised the importance of building a strong, united community as a foundation for sustainable development. Speaking to the community she encouraged the senior citizens to acknowledge the Government’s continued support, including the recent pension increment, while noting that further improvements remain a priority.

As Namibia marks its 36th Independence Anniversary, Her Excellency, Lucia Witbooi, Vice President attended a church service at St Joseph Catholic Church in ǂGabes ahead of the remembrance ceremony of the late Honourable Reverend Willem Konjore. The Vice President also laid a wreath at the graveside of the late Reverend Konjore at the ǂGabes Cemetery, paying tribute to his enduring contribution to Namibia’s liberation struggle and nation-building. In her remarks, the Vice President said "it was a great honour to be in ǂGabes, highlighting the area’s historical significance and describing its graveyard as a national shrine, where veterans and stalwarts of Namibia’s freedom and independence are laid to rest". She noted that as the nation celebrates 36th Independence Anniversary, it is equally a time to remember and honour the men and women whose sacrifices secured the freedom we enjoyed today. Reflecting on the life and legacy of Reverend Willem Konjore and others, she emphasised that their service was marked by purpose, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to the liberation of Namibia.

As we reflect on this enduring legacy of Reverend Konjore, let us also renew our collective commitment to building a Namibia that is inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking. The responsibility to advance the ideals of freedom, equality, and shared prosperity now rests with all of us as government, traditional leadership, the church, and every citizen. We must empower our youth, strengthen our institutions, and foster unity across all communities, so that the sacrifices of our forebearers are not in vain. Let us move forward with determination, guided by the values of integrity, accountability, and service to the nation, as we work together to secure a brighter future for generations to come. That is what Reverend Konjore would have expect from all of us. As we continue to chart the way forward for our people, May the Legacy of Reverend Willem Konjore, continue to inspire us, as a nation and may we continue to draw strength and inspiration from his life. I thank you.

TRIBUTE BY HER EXCELLENCY LUCIA WITBOOI, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA ON THE OCCASION OF THE WREATH LAYING CEREMONY AT THE GRAVESIDE OF THE LATE REVEREND WILLEM KONJORE 20 MARCH 2026 ǂGABES, KARASBURG EAST CONSTITUENCY Esteemed Family Members; Dear Christian Brothers and Sisters; It is a great honour to be back this morning in ǂGabes, on the eve of the 36th Anniversary of Namibia’s Independence. ǂGabes is of historical importance and its graveyard a national shrine, because here too lie the remains of one of the veterans and stalwarts of our freedom and independence. As we celebrate the 36th Independence Anniversary, we also remember men and women who contributed immensely to the fruits of independence we are enjoying today. As we gathered this morning in unison to reflect on the life and times of Reverend Willem Konjore and many others, we do so with the conviction that their time and energy spent in this world were done with clear purpose and conviction. Reverend Konjore was born on 30 July 1945 in Kais, a small settlement here in //Kharas Region. He was trained as a teacher at St Joseph's Teacher Training Centre in Döbra and from 1976 to 1979 went to study theology in the Diocese of Keetmanshoop and Mariental. From 1968 to 1990, he worked as a teacher at several schools in Tses and later as a principal and manager at ǂKoichas. Reverend Willem Konjore played an instrumental role in the Nama Teachers Strike of 1976, which culminated in him, together with the late Reverend Dr. Hendrik Witbooi, Chief Stephanus Goliath, and many others, joined the liberation struggle under the banner of the SWAPO. In 1989, Reverend Konjore was elected as a Member of the Constituent Assembly, the Assembly that was responsible for the drafting of the Namibian Constitution. This made him one of the Founding Fathers of our Republic. Following the transition of the Constituent Assembly into the first National Assembly, he served as the the first Chief Whip of the SWAPO and later Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Minister of the Environment and Tourism Ministry and Minister of Youth, National Service, Sport and Culture until his retirement in 2010. He also served as a Member of the SWAPO Party Central Committee. In recognition of his distinguished service to the Namibian people and for his outstanding contribution to the independence struggle, Reverend Konjore was conferred the Most Brilliant Order of the Sun, Second Class by former President Dr. Hifikepunye Pohamba on Heroes Day in 2014. Sadly, Reverend Konjore departed from this world on the 11th June 2021. He was accorded a State Funeral and laid to Rest here in ǂGabes on Saturday, 26 June 2021. Reverend Willem Konjore was a dedicated freedom fighter, a respected politician of note and above all a dynamic religious leader. His life was dedicated to the principles of respect, hard work, honesty, truthfulness and social justice. The freedom and independence we enjoy today, was achieved through sacrifices made by people like Reverend Willem Konjore. Therefore, on the eve of our 36th Independence Anniversary, we must as a nation continue to value and guard the peace that people like Reverend Konjore fought for the greater part of their lives. Let us honour their memories by remaining true to the notion of “One Namibia, One Nation”.

In Video: Vice President Lucia Witbooi, this morning visited the Satco Early Childhood Development Centre in Karasburg, where she engaged with children, parents and educators as part of her ongoing community outreach ahead of national celebrations.

Vice President Lucia Witbooi, this morning visited the Satco Early Childhood Development Centre in Karasburg, where she engaged with children, parents and educators as part of her ongoing community outreach ahead of national celebrations. Addressing the gathering, the Vice President informed residents that Government has adopted an inclusive approach for independence celebrations to be held across all regions. For //Kharas Region the celebrations will be held in Karasburg she informed the gathering. In a firm message to the community, she called for collective action against social ills, particularly substance abuse. “Lets kick out drugs and other social evils from our communities" the Vice President urged the community. Speaking directly to the children, the Vice President encouraged them to remain dedicated to their education and to aspire towards meaningful careers, including in healthcare, law enforcement and other professions that contribute to national development. She further appealed to parents and teachers to take shared responsibility for the well-being of the children, emphasising the importance of safeguarding the centre as a community asset.

Her Excellency Lucia Witbooi, Vice President held a courtesy meeting with the Bondelswarts Traditional Authority, led by its Acting Chief, Dencil Christian. The engagement forms part of the Government of the Republic of Namibia’s ongoing commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional leadership, in recognition of their vital role in community development, cultural preservation, and inclusive governance.

The TVET sector is evolving rapidly, and the demand for technical and vocational skills continues to grow across many established industries. At the same time, new skills demands are emerging from major macro-economic development initiatives, most notably in the Green Hydrogen and Oil and Gas sectors. We must keep pace with these evolving needs, and we must do so in a manner that maximises impact while unlocking opportunity for our people. Vocational Training Centres have a critical role to play in this regard. Individually and collectively, these public institutions must supply our economy with the technical and vocational expertise required, to advance the macroeconomic development objectives we have set for ourselves as a country. The Keetmanshoop Vocational Training Centre is strategically positioned to develop critical skills for the emerging Green Hydrogen and Oil and Gas sectors. This positioning carries with it a profound responsibility. There are also strong expectations, that this center will align its programmes in a manner, that supports the development of local TVET skills required for the //Kharas Region’s ambitious plans, to develop more than 2,000 hectares of irrigation projects at the Neckartal Dam. This is an important national project with the potential to add significant value to both the regional and national economy. With these sectors soon entering crucial phases of field development and production, the entire TVET value chain must be ready. This state-of-the-art facility ultimately belongs to the people of Namibia. The services it will provide are intended to equip our youth with the knowledge and practical skills they require not only to succeed in today’s job market, but also to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy. This facility exists to serve them, the youth who represent the future and hope of our nation. We must empower them, strengthen their capabilities, and prepare them to become leaders and productive contributors within their communities and the broader national economy. I therefore call upon the community of Keetmanshoop, and the people of the //Kharas Region at large, to embrace this institution, to take full ownership of it, and to support its continued growth and success. I make the same appeal to the political, traditional, and religious leaders present today. I also call upon our local and national industry partners and employers to collaborate with this centre in a spirit of purposeful partnership — one grounded in cooperation and a shared commitment to skills excellence. Once again, I would like to express my gratitude to all the stakeholders who played a role in making this vision a reality, from government officials to community leaders and educators. Let us celebrate this historic occasion as we embark on a new chapter in vocational education in //Kharas Region, building a prosperous future for all Namibians through education and skill development. With these few remarks, it is now my singular honour, to declare the Keetmanshoop Vocational Training Centre officially open. I thank you.

Keynote Address by Her Excellency Lucia Witbooi the Vice President of the Republic of Namibia on the occassion of the inauguration of Keetmanshoop Vocational Training Centre, Keetmanshoop, //Kharas Region 19 March 2026 Ladies and Gentlemen, I am honoured to have been invited to partake in this historic and auspicious occasion, marking the inauguration of the Keetmanshoop Vocational Training Centre, here in the heart of the South, in Keetmanshoop. The inauguration of this Centre is a clear testimony to our Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every Namibian, especially the youth, have access to quality vocational training that equips them with relevant skills necessary for today’s job market. In addition, it underscores Namibia’s upward trajectory in advancing our shared national objective of expanding access to technical and vocational skills. This commitment is firmly captured under the Human Development and Community Resilience Pillar of our Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), particularly within its Education for Development focus area. Our Sixth National Development Plan outlines the transformation of Namibia’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training sector which, remains a national priority. It emphasizes strengthening governance, improving the quality and relevance of training, expanding access and equity, and deepening collaboration between training institutions and industry. These efforts are aimed at ensuring that our training system produces graduates whose skills respond directly to the needs of our economy. By 2030, the TVET sector aims to strengthen its responsiveness to labour market demands by increasing the proportion of graduates whose skills are aligned with industry needs from 65% to 70%. Therefore, institutions such as the Keetmanshoop Vocational Training Centre will play a critical role in promoting the national target by equipping our youth with practical, industry-relevant competencies required in emerging sectors, such as green hydrogen, oil and gas, and modern agriculture. Moreover, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training is also a powerful vehicle for promoting social equity, inclusion, and sustainable development. The Eighth Administration, under the capable leadership of Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi- Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, continues its transformative potential in reducing unemployment and combating poverty. For this reason, as the government, we remain committed to providing the TVET sector with the necessary support and allocating the resources required for its growth. Government has committed and resolved to construct Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) in all 14 regions of Namibia, as part of the national TVET sector transformation and expansion strategy. Therefore, today the //Kharas Region becomes the twelfth (12th) region to host its own government Vocational Training Centre. The establishment of Keetmanshoop Vocational Training Centre is well positioned to expand access to quality and equitable training opportunities for the people of the //Kharas Region and beyond. Its establishment stands as a testament that our government remains firmly committed to building a vibrant and responsive national TVET sector. It also underscores the value we place on developing technical and vocational skills as a cornerstone of national development. Allow me to commend the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, the Namibia Training Authority, and all our stakeholders and partners for achieving this important milestone. Notwithstanding this upward trajectory, our work to sustain the transformation and revitalisation of Namibia’s TVET system must continue constantly.

“The inauguration of this Centre is a clear testimony to our Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every Namibian, especially the youth, have access to quality vocational training that equips them with relevant skills necessary for today’s job market.” H.E Lucia Witbooi

Her Excellency Lucia Witbooi, Vice President of the Republic of Namibia, has arrived at the Keetmanshoop Vocational Training Centre, in Keetmanshoop, //Kharas Region, where she will inaugurate a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Namibia. The development forms part of the Namibia Training Authority’s strategic efforts to expand and transform the TVET sector, with a focus on improving access and strengthening its presence across all fourteen regions of the country. Spanning approximately 300,000 square metres, the centre has been designated as a specialised hub for the energy sector, with particular emphasis on oil and gas, as well as green hydrogen. The project dates back to its groundbreaking in 2016, marking a significant step forward in Namibia’s skills development agenda. An amount of N$11.7 million was allocated for Phase 1 of the project, while a further N$103 million has been committed towards Phase 1B for construction, reflecting Government’s continued investment in infrastructure to support vocational training and economic growth.

Vice President, Her Excellency Lucia Witbooi, today officially launched the GIPF Pension-Backed Home Loan Scheme in Mariental, marking a significant milestone in Namibia’s efforts to expand access to affordable housing. The launch took place at Extension 6, where 87 serviced plots out of a total of 311 have been completed, laying a firm foundation for future residential development. In her remarks, the Vice President reaffirmed that access to adequate housing remains central to Namibia’s broader vision of inclusive and sustainable national development. She emphasised that land and housing provision continue to be key strategic priorities of Government, firmly embedded in the Sixth National Development Plan.