Tutjavi calls for renewed commitment in unity and economic action

WINDHOEK, 21 MAR (NAMPA) - Swapo Member of Parliament (MP), Fenny Tutjavi, has called for renewed commitment to unity, economic inclusion and vigilance against modern forms of influence.
Tutjavi in her address at Namibia’s 36th Independence Day commemoration in the Khomas Region said Independence Day should be seen not only as a reflection on Namibia’s liberation from colonial rule, but also as a measure of the country’s social and economic progress since then.
“This day reminds us that our presence here is both a duty and a privilege, a duty to build a better future for Namibia in honour of the heroes and heroines who sacrificed so much for our freedom and the privilege to live free from oppression,” she said.
Tutjavi highlighted education as one of the country’s key post-independence achievements, pointing to expanded access to tertiary education under the administration of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah which has enabled more Namibians to contribute meaningfully to national development.
She however warned that the nature of challenges faced by Namibia has evolved, shifting from the armed struggle to more complex pressures linked to international relations and policy influence.
Tutjavi also acknowledged ongoing socio-economic challenges, including poverty, youth unemployment and inequality, noting that economic independence remains incomplete for some communities.
On economic development, she said small and medium enterprises continue to play a critical role in job creation and innovation, despite barriers to accessing finance. She further encouraged support for youth-driven initiatives such as the National Youth Development Fund to expand opportunities.
“Indeed, the fight is no longer with guns, nor with chants, nor with gorilla tactics. Present-day oppression and infiltration are clothed in foreign policy, diplomatic relations and friendships,” she said.
Tutjavi further paid tribute to Namibia’s liberation struggle and reiterated the importance of unity in achieving national goals, echoing the words of founding president Sam Nujoma that "a united people striving for a common good will prevail.”
(NAMPA)
EB/EK/AS