The Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy called on staff members to create plans to ensure sustainable mining practices and industrial development.

Natangwe Ithete says the ministry's policies must safeguard the optimal use of Namibia's natural resources to support employment creation.

Ithete addressed staff members of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy, gathered at Swakopmund.

The workers are expected to come up with a six-year strategic plan to guide the ministry, which was expanded to include the industrialisation responsibility.

Ithete noted that the ministry made progress in recent years to expand access to energy, strengthen regulations and promote local industries.

The Executive Director Ben Nangombe reminded staff members that they do not have the luxury of time and should complete the strategic plan by the end of April, without fail.

Deputy Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy Gaudentia Krohne said, "The directives from the president are clear. We must respond and do everything needed in order to empower our people economically and to create jobs and harness our mineral resources for the benefit of all our people. There is no room for error; we must rise to the occasion; we must implement the directives without fail."

The meeting is also expected to draft the 2025/26 annual plan and performance agreements for the minister, deputy, and directors.