Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has called on the church to act as a moral compass and strategic partner in national development.

Dr Ngurare was speaking during the Inner City Lutheran Congregation's 35-year celebration.

The Premier identified several critical societal challenges, such as gender-based violence fuelled by alcohol and drug abuse. Supporting small and medium enterprises to prevent total loss during temporary financial stumbles was another. 

He stated that equipping young people with values such as honesty, discipline and accountability will help them navigate modern pressures that come with artificial intelligence and digital technology.

This initiative will also assist government in its efforts to drive social change. "So we want our young people to be equipped with the values to become responsible citizens and compassionate members of society, but become engineers of Namibia of tomorrow, and they can begin today." 

Ngurare maintained that "a congregation that invests in its young people invests in the future of Namibia. It is in the church where many of our citizens first learn values such as honesty, discipline, respect, compassion and accountability. These are not just spiritual virtues. They are the very foundation upon which strong families, ethical leadership and prosperous nations are built."

During the celebration, long-serving members and youth reflected on the 35 years of Inner City and its impact on society. 

The evening included music, the launch of the church website and a celebration of faith, unity and impact.