Strong partnerships between the public and private sectors are the only way to achieve sustainable economic growth, industrialisation, and job creation.

The National Planning Commission (NPC) Director General, Kaire Mbuende, said this at a stakeholders' engagement session on progress and outcomes of the Inaugural Namibia Public-Private Forum held in Windhoek.

Dr. Mbuende also emphasised the need for engagement between the government, the private sector, development partners and the media, who share a common interest in Namibia's development.

He also stressed that Namibia's economic development cannot be achieved by the government alone without involving the private sector.

"It requires a relationship built on trust, mutual respect, continuous dialogue and, above all, shared commitment to implementation and results."

He further stated that the inauguration of the forum last year marked a deeper relationship between the public and private sectors.

"On the understanding that Namibia's aspirations for economic growth, competitiveness, industrialisation and job creation require both sectors to work together as partners in development."

He further emphasised that the discussions during the forum were candid, constructive and solution-oriented.

"Our country is well-positioned to achieve the ambitious goals outlined in the Six National Development Plan and Vision 2030."