Swapo Party Secretary General Sophia Shaningwa has stated that Namibia will attain economic emancipation.

Shaningwa was speaking during the party's belated birthday anniversary celebrations at Ongenga in the Ohangwena Region.

Shaningwa said Namibia, its government and people are now focused on achieving economic freedom after attaining political freedom, adding that the Swapo Party remains committed to addressing the economic challenges facing many Namibians. 

These include poverty, youth unemployment, inadequate access to education, housing shortages, hunger, healthcare services, food security, sanitation, and clean water.

"Youth unemployment is a problem. Our President has put his signature on the Appropriation Bill, which was passed by both houses. Let's utilise whatever is in NDP6, and the manifesto for implementation to make sure whatever is appropriate and funds are made available; those funds must not go back to the treasury."

Shaningwa also expressed concern about division among some residents of Ongenga District, where people have reportedly been speaking negatively about one another.

She urged community members to promote mutual respect, unity, and understanding for the benefit of the community.

At the gathering, a former regional mobiliser for the Independent Patriots for Change in the Ohangwena Region, Erastus Mwahafa, was among those who joined the Swapo Party.