President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has urged former Heads of Mission to use their international experience and networks to support Namibia's development agenda.
Nandi-Ndaitwah officially welcomed home a group of 15 former ambassadors and high commissioners who completed their diplomatic tours of duty.
Addressing the diplomats, the President encouraged them to invest in the local economy and use their global connections to foster partnerships that contribute to national growth.
"If there are a few cents that you have saved while you were in service, why not think of becoming part of the country's economy? You can partner with others and invest in some of these enablers to make your contribution. During your service, you met many people – make use of those contacts. We cannot always talk only about foreign investors; this is a mixed economy, and Namibians must also participate."
President Nandi-Ndaitwah also reminded both retired and serving diplomats of the country's seven priority areas of agriculture, sports, youth empowerment, quality education and training, and the creative industry, which are supported by key enablers such as mining, fisheries, logistics, transport, and infrastructure.
"I want every Namibian to reflect on these priorities and ask: where am I, and what is my contribution? We must all participate in the enablers that make it possible to realise our national goals."
Speaking on behalf of the returning diplomats, former Ambassador to Egypt Vilio Hifindaka said the group worked to turn Namibia's foreign policy priorities into tangible outcomes.
He noted that they had submitted detailed reports and handover notes to ensure continuity in areas such as trade, investment and cooperation.
"We aligned our diplomatic efforts with your vision, building partnerships, mobilising resources, and securing opportunities that advance Namibia's development agenda. Your Excellency, kindly accept our collective congratulations on the progress you are driving in governing the Land of the Brave. We affirm our unwavering loyalty and our readiness to continue serving Namibia wherever we may find ourselves."
President Nandi-Ndaitwah last month appointed the first group of new Heads of Mission, with additional appointments expected in due course.