The Minister of International Relations and Trade (MIRT) called on the Namibia Association of Former Ambassadors (NAFA) to find more effective ways of supporting them in managing Namibia's foreign policy to advance the country's national interests.
Selma Ashipala-Musavyi made the call during a deliberation meeting with the former ambassadors.
Established in 2014, the association is a think tank and advisory arm to the ministry.
Further forming as an invaluable reservoir of knowledge from which the minister, management and staff benefit.
Ashipala-Musavyi says that for Namibia to continue its active participation on the global stage, it requires continuous learning, adaptation, and collaboration; therefore, NAFA plays a pivotal role in this aspect.
"Your work, as a think tank of the ministry, should therefore find innovative ways in which our current crop of diplomats can ensure economic diplomacy unlocks opportunities for Namibians at home and abroad. The true value of diplomacy lies in tangible benefits for Namibian citizens, in the form of jobs, investment, skills transfer, stability, and improved livelihoods."
NAFA has assisted the ministry on a number of assignments.
These are the reviews of the White Paper on Foreign Policy and Diplomacy Management, the Manual of Operations, the Protocol Manual, the Foreign Service Rules and the establishment of the Namibia School of Diplomatic Studies.
It also includes the recruitment interview panels and induction workshops, as well as serving as election observers at SADC.
"I invite all of you to continue sharing our experiences with the young and upcoming diplomats. They are and will take over from us tomorrow, but we need to prepare them. Our School of Diplomacy awaits you to share your experiences. As you appoint or elect new members of the Executive in line with NAFA Guidelines, please identify members who have the time to spare to create the necessary momentum and fulfil the mandate of this important Association."
The association is chaired by Ambassador Tonata Itenge-Emvula and deputised by retired Lieutenant General Martin Shalli.