The Minister of International Relations and Trade (MIRT), Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, has called on the business community in the Kunene Region to step out of their comfort zones and take advantage of the region's untapped economic potential, particularly in the mining and tourism sectors.
Speaking during a business consultation, Ashipala-Musavyi emphasised the importance of collaboration between governments and local entrepreneurs to unlock sustainable development in the region.
Ashipala-Musavyi has urged entrepreneurs to identify and capitalise on opportunities that can stimulate economic growth and drive local development.
The minister highlighted the importance of market access for Namibian products and services, stressing that local production is key to unlocking the region's potential.
She said Kunene can be a key player, referencing the region's rich mineral deposits and its emerging status as a potential mining hub.
Ashipala-Musavyi questioned how many local entrepreneurs are currently active in the mining sector and pointed out that it takes greater support to facilitate their entry, particularly for women entrepreneurs.
"In the Kunene Region, you also have an advantage of cosmetics, otjize. As the government, we are united in our mission to transform the Kunene Region and foster economic growth by utilising local content, resources, and opportunities, while further optimising them to create jobs and empower the community. It is only we Namibians who can develop Namibia; anyone who comes here will only complement our efforts, and we have the capacity to do that."
Deputy Director of Industrial Development in the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy, Pinehas Ashipala, said, "We also expect these investors to do business in a more environmentally friendly manner, so they should protect our environment and develop our country in a way that we do not damage our ability to serve our people and also serve future generations."
The event also raised awareness around the effective implementation of AfCFTA.