The Works and Transport Minister, Veikko Nekundi, says maritime excellence cannot remain a slogan but must create skills, businesses, jobs and opportunities for future generations.

Nekundi made the remarks when he officially opened Walvis Bay Maritime Week, held under the theme "From Policy to Practice: Powering Marine Excellence".

Minister Nekundi challenged policymakers and industry players to demonstrate how the country's maritime investments will directly benefit ordinary Namibians.

He says the true measure of excellence should be whether infrastructure and the blue economy help reduce poverty, create employment and empower young people. 

"I can assure you, these students, these learners, will never eat slogans. Families will never eat slogans. It's how we translate these slogans into the actual benefits of the idea: how the marine infrastructure can benefit every Namibian, including the downtrodden."

Nekundi says Walvis Bay demonstrates how maritime infrastructure, efficient logistics and strong institutions can unlock opportunities for Namibians.

He added that the ministry contributes to maritime excellence through three pillars of action, including significant investment in maritime infrastructure, as well as active coastal conservation and protection.

The minister also wants industry players to help young Namibians acquire practical skills so they can participate meaningfully in emerging industries.

"We cannot, as a nation, have such a huge strategic industry, seeing so-called Namibian entities owned by one firm from somewhere else. And because they are registered in Namibia, we think they are Namibian companies, while the genuine Namibians are only general employees. I want you to take this responsibility, identify those services that would be required in the oil and gas industry, and be strategic enough, without shame, without fear, and, by extension, be decisive. Identify them, and give them the skills. First, identify those industries in which they can participate. Identify them and empower them to take up those opportunities. If they require certain equipment, acquire those assets and give these young people the tools to participate directly."

The minister says youth development initiatives forming part of Maritime Week are intended to expose young people to opportunities in the maritime sector.