This morning, eight non-voting members of the National Assembly, nominated by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, were sworn in.

The ceremony was officiated by Chief Justice Peter Shivute.

Non-voting members in Parliament can take part in discussions and committee work, but they do not have the right to vote on laws or decisions. However, they can be appointed to the executive as ministers.

They usually serve in advisory roles or represent certain groups, regions, or interests and can be appointed as ministers based on their expertise.

The eight members sworn in today are Frans Kapofi, Sanet Steenkamp, Dr. Mac Hengari, Ericah Shafudah, Ambassador Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Dr. Esperance Luvindao, Sankwas James Sankwasa and Fillemon Wise Immanuel.

Kapofi served as the Minister of Defence in the 7th Parliament, which was dissolved on Thursday, while Erica Shafuda was the former Executive Director in the Ministry of Finance.

Ashipala-Mushavyi comes with a wealth of diplomatic experience and served as Namibia's ambassador to Ethiopia and permanent representative to the African Union. Her last posting was as Namibia's High Commissioner to Ghana, having also served as High Commissioner to Nigeria.

Sankwasa served as Deputy Minister of Works and Transport in President Hifikepunye Pohamba's administration.

Steenkamp, before this appointment, was the long-serving executive director in the Ministry of Education.

Several of the new appointees shared their thoughts with the nation.

Frans Kapofi reminded Namibians that "Namibia is all we have, and we must take great care of it."

"To my colleagues in parliament, we are first and foremost Namibians and belong to different political parties, but our destiny is one. Therefore, no matter how different our views are, we are Namibians, and our mission is to serve the people of this country."

Sanet Steenkamp pledged her loyalty and dedication to serving the country.

"I am your servant, and I am most grateful for the support and prayers and everyone who believes in me, and I wish to garner your support for us to take hands in a decisive and collaborative manner to carry forward the arts industry, issues around youth and sports, and education, which is critically important for this country."

Dr Mac Hengari, a former student activist and an office bearer of NANSO in the early eighties, highlighted the challenges Namibia faces as part of the global economy, which can be tough for developing nations.

"Debate is essential for building consensus; you do not arrive at consensus from a pre-conceived position. So, we expect the august house, like the National Assembly, to robustly debate issues in a respectful manner to arrive at a national consensus on many of the issues in front of us."

Erica Shafudah promised to research parliamentary duties to bring positive changes.

"Basically understanding that this is a legislative house where laws are passed, so reading is very critical because bringing value to debates, I should have facts."

Ambassador Selma Ashipala-Musavyi expressed hope that the President's choice of eight non-voting members would inspire young women to believe in their abilities and contribute to the country's progress.

"It speaks to the principles of the Swapo government in terms of gender equality. We are well known for having achieved a lot in the area of women's advancement, and from her pick, you can see that she's still committed to the advancement of women...

After these appointments the 8th National Assembly of Namibia now has a total of 104 members.

Of these, 59 are from the ruling party, Swapo.