President Nangolo Mbumba has encouraged the new Heads of Mission to find niche markets for Namibia's products. 

They are also expected to assist with the improvement of the country's global competitiveness rankings.

Dr. Mbumba said this as he commissioned three Heads of Mission at State House.

The new three Heads of Mission are Selma Nghinamundova, who heads to Brazil as Namibia's Ambassador, taking over from Mbapeua Muvangua.

Stanley Tsandib is replacing Elvis Shiweda as Ambassador to Senegal, while Elizabeth Kakukuru heads to neighboring Botswana as High Commissioner, replacing Asser Kapere.

President Mbumba expects the new crop of diplomats to ensure that Namibia gains more trading partners during their tour of diplomatic duty to their respective host countries.

"You must endeavor to find niche markets for our products, as well as to work towards improving our image and global competitiveness rankings. As the world is moving at a fast pace towards the fourth industrial revolution, the world is changing in many areas such as science and technology, climate change, and geopolitics. For that reason, we require you to keep yourself up to date with such happenings and provide our government with appropriate policy perspectives on how to effectively navigate its path towards success."

The Head of State reminded the diplomats of Namibia's foreign policy being an extension of its domestic policy. 

In this regard, Dr. Mbumba said they should be cognizant of socio-economic challenges and the efforts by the government to address these.

"The national interest of Namibia and the wellbeing of its people should be at the forefront of all your activities. Whatever you will be doing as Namibia's Ambassadors must translate into tangible benefits for the Namibian people and contribute to our developmental agenda, as well as our quest to build a united, peaceful, and prosperous Namibian House, in which no one should feel left out."

The newly commissioned Heads of Mission say economic diplomacy remains central to their new roles, as charged by the President.

Ambassador to Brazil Selma Nghinamundova delivered the group's message.

"We will further work towards encouraging and supporting the private sector in seeking new trade and investment opportunities, focusing on priority areas that have the potential to translate into economic growth, sustainable development, and prosperity for our nation. We thank you once again, Your Excellency, for the privilege and opportunity bestowed upon us and assure you of our full commitment and dedication, as we embark on our new assignments to serve with resolve and advance our bilateral relations with our respective countries of accreditation, for the benefit of our country and its people."

The three diplomats are concurrently accredited to various other countries and multilateral organisations such as SADC.

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Photo Credits
Namibian Presidency

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Blanche Goreses