Lawmaker McHenry Venaani used the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly to call for global action on peace and sustainable development, with a particular focus on water and sanitation.

Speaking at the United Nations Day of Peace in New York, Venaani stated that peace is not an abstract concept, but a daily responsibility, noting that Namibia’s own history of struggle for freedom informs its commitment to security and stability. 

He told delegates that peace is tied to collective responsibility and stressed the need to address the root causes of instability, including poverty, inequality, and the impacts of climate change on resources. 

Venaani urged investment in educating the youth to promote tolerance, foster inclusive growth, and build partnerships. He said peace cannot be secured through treaties alone but is achieved through everyday choices that promote unity and justice.

Venaani also participated in a panel discussion on the Better Together UNGA80 Initiative, focussing on water and sanitation issues. The Namibian lawmaker highlighted the connection between science, political will, and human dignity. 

He described access to clean water and sanitation as a human right and warned that climate change is worsening the crisis by contaminating vital resources. 

He pointed to the burden on women and children who lose opportunities for education and development because of the lack of safe water.

Venaani pledged to support efforts that harness science, strengthen partnerships, and invest in solutions to ensure every African home has access to clean water and sanitation.