National Assembly Speaker Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila launched a new publication in Windhoek that explores constitutionalism, sustainable economic development and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Dr Kuugongelwa-Amadhila emphasised its potential to drive sustainable growth and cross-border cooperation.
"The central argument of the book is that these are not separate questions at all. Sustainable economic development in Africa is not, in the first instance, an economic problem. It is a constitutional one. Where constitutionalism holds, development becomes possible. Where it doesn't, development stalls, regardless of the resources available or the plans announced."
She congratulated the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, UNAM, and the editors and authors, stressing that Namibia's laws and commitments must be put into practice.
The publication brings together contributions from Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Sudan, focusing on how constitutional principles can support economic development and improve citizens' lives.
Dr. Kennedy Kariseb says contributing to the book allows Namibia to take part in continental discussions on constitutionalism and sustainable economic development.
"As citizens, it is our responsibility collectively to think about these laws, particularly these constitutions that regulate us, and how we should be positioned by those that we elect. Those that are appointed in positions of authority to implement them, how they can rethink these processes."
He says citizens have a responsibility to understand the laws and constitutions that govern them and hold those in authority accountable for implementing them effectively.
Dr. Tapiwa Warikandwa, a University of Botswana lecturer, adds, "Constitutionalism must be underfed by that notion of sustainable economic development and growth on the continent and not just resources of piloting or bleeding to other continents, as it were.
The book challenges governments, academics and practitioners to find practical solutions to poverty, expand economic opportunities and build a more sustainable and prosperous Africa.