The Erongo Governor Nathalia |Goagoses has called on civil society to move beyond protest and into policymaking.
Leaders in the Erongo Region marked World Non-Governmental Organization Day in Swakopmund, with an emphasis on accountability, collaboration and action.
The Erongo Governor, who was named the patron of the event, said NGOs play a vital role in eradicating poverty, restoring dignity and driving national development.
But she believes NGOs can do more to help shape policies.
"I'm saying on record, civil society must claim its rightful place in shaping policies and development plans. Playing small, hiding, demonstrating, petitioning - no. Please take your rightful place in shaping the policies and development plans of our government of Namibia. Your insights from the ground make government interventions more responsive to the real needs of our communities."
She emphasised that while the government allocates billions through national budgets, the impact does not always reach grassroots communities - leaving NGOs to bridge the gap.
Mahongora Kavihuha, Chairperson of the Namibia Network of Non-Governmental Organisations, stressed the importance of partnership rather than hostility between NGOs and government.
"Civil society organisations and trade unions are, in some instances, seen as being hostile towards government. But we are not interested in that. We are interested in building the society that we have, which is Namibia. So it's very important, colleagues, that your work - what you are doing in every corner where you find yourself - is contributing to nation-building. And we don't need to agree on everything."
Among the various NGO leaders was Glen Kasper of the Topnaar Youth, who detailed efforts to preserve indigenous heritage and create rural jobs.
"Last week, we had the honour to register the Desert Livestock Farming Cooperative, and this is not only about us. We are living in an inclusive Namibia. We are talking about world-inspiring rural youth, so they are also included in this cooperative. This is to make sure that we create jobs for our rural youth."
Various NGO leaders emphasised that resilient organisations must go beyond good intentions, measure their impact and ensure that development reaches those on the margins.