Churches must take an active role in restoring moral order and accountability if Namibia is to overcome corruption, inequality, and stagnation.

This was the message from speakers at the 3rd Annual Economic Summit at Swakopmund.

Hosted by the Alliance of Christian Churches in Namibia, the summit brought together political leaders, business executives, and faith-based organisations to explore how ethical values can shape development.

Reverend Dolly Nengushe, ACCN's Executive Director, said the church could no longer stand at the sidelines of public affairs while society struggled with corruption and injustice.

She said that the church is the custodian for moral values.

"It cannot be otherwise; it can only be that our nation (Namibia) shines as the beginning of all Africa. Leading the way, the Bible says in the book of Proverbs, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." May righteousness guide our economy, injustice guide our policies, and divine wisdom, the wisdom that comes from God above, guide every decision we make.

She said ethical transformation begins when faith leaders partner with entrepreneurs and policymakers to rebuild trust and opportunity.

Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa reinforced the summit's call for accountability.

"We should appreciate that you have a contract with Namibian people for five years. I know when they start asking at the fourth or the fifth, 'Have you been accountable for the things we trusted you to do?' and when they say no, you don't hate them; simply just say, 'Did I execute? If I didn't, thank you very much.' Let the Namibian people find someone else."

He indicated misuse of power or resources, whether in state offices or pulpits, undermines public trust.