The 20th Dr. Theo-Ben Gurirab Lecture Series held at the Namibia University of Science and Technology emphasised the urgent need for global development, youth empowerment, and addressing international inequalities. 

Discussions centred on the upcoming Summit of the Future, which aims to reshape global governance and ensure sustainable development.

The Summit of the Future, scheduled for September 2024, aims to produce a comprehensive "Pact for the Future" document addressing global challenges such as poverty, climate change, youth unemployment, and gender inequality. 

The United Nations General Assembly President, Dennis Francis commended Namibia for its gender parity in the National Assembly, underscoring the country's commitment to inclusivity and equality.

Dennis Francis addressed a joint Parliament session this afternoon. 

Francis also spoke about the drought situation in Namibia, saying the country does not have adequate fiscal space to cater to the demands of the means of implementation due to its lack of access to affordable climate financing. 

President of the United Nations General Assembly Dennis Francis stated that the UN faces mounting challenges amidst evolving values, war crimes, geopolitical shifts, and conflicts, despite its active interventions.

Speaking during a courtesy call with President Nangolo Mbumba, Francis said this has created the notion that the UN has become irrelevant and needs restructuring to be more impactful.

Francis underscored that the UN, rather than being a problem, remains a crucial global solution, making significant strides in preventing world war.

The President of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Dennis Francis, has arrived in Namibia this afternoon. 

Ambassador Francis' four-day visit is in preparation for the Summit of the Future, which will be co-hosted by Namibia and Germany in September.

Francis was received at the Hosea Kutako International Airport by the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security. Lucia Witbooi, the UN Country Representative Hopolang Phororo, and the Executive Director in the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, Penda Naanda.