© UN Namibia

UN Resident Coordinator, Hopolang Phororo

As we conclude the final year of implementing the 2019 2024 United Nations Partnership Framework, we look with anticipation to the remaining six years to reach 2030. Time is not on our side and calls on the UN system, together with its partners to accelerate progress to meet the SDG targets. This is an opportune moment to reflect on the key achievements that have shaped our development support to Namibia. Over the past five years, the United Nations, in partnership with the Government of Namibia, development partners, civil society, and the private sector, has worked tirelessly to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national 
priorities under Vision 2030.

Through our four key pillars—Economic Progression, Social Transformation, Environmental Sustainability, and Good Governance—the UN has contributed to economic growth, social development, environmental resilience, and institutional strengthening. These efforts have laid a strong foundation for Namibia’s sustainable development trajectory. Under Economic Progression, our focus has been on job creation, entrepreneurship, trade, industrialization, and financial inclusion. The EMPRETEC Namibia Programme has empowered MSMEs, youth, and women entrepreneurs with business training and access to financial resources. Namibia’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has expanded trade and investment opportunities, while the Green Hydrogen 
Initiative has positioned the country as a leader in renewable energy and the green economy. Support for agriculture and food security, including the Hydroponics Project and climate-smart farming initiatives, has enhanced rural livelihoods and resilience.

The Social Transformation pillar, is where the UN has greatly contributed in terms of activities and budget, playing a pivotal role in strengthening health, education, gender equality, and social protection systems. Our support has contributed to a significant reduction in HIV/AIDS infections, the expansion of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and enhanced pandemic preparedness. The Transforming Education Summit shaped inclusive and digital learning reforms, while the Integrated Social Protection System has strengthened Namibia’s ability to provide targeted support to vulnerable populations. Efforts to address gender-based violence (GBV) and promote women’s leadership have also yielded tangible results.

On Environmental Sustainability, Namibia has taken bold steps to combat climate change, protect bio diversity, and promote sustainable resource management. The Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) were updated to accelerate climate action, while the Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) Portal has improved transparency in emissions tracking. UN support for renewable energy, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable fisheries has reinforced Namibia’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

In the area of Good Governance, the UN has support ed institutional strengthening, civic engagement, and human rights. Key achievements include electoral support, capacity building for public institutions, sup port to the 2023 Population and Housing Census and improved access to justice through the Legal Aid and Access to Justice Programme. The National Tracking System for Human Rights Commitments has enabled real-time monitoring of Namibia’s progress in fulfilling international obligations. Efforts to increase women’s representation in leadership and strengthen national data systems have further enhanced governance and accountability.

Moving forward, the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), 2025-2029 will support the implementation of Namibia’s Vision 2030, the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), and the acceleration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The thrust of this new framework will be to address the issues that remain pervasive, and the pillars of the previous framework remain relevant. The overarching goal will be to tackle inequality in an integrated manner and to put young people at the centre. The United Nations in Namibia renews its commitment to strengthening partner ships, fostering innovative financing, and driving joint impactful development solutions that ensure inclusive and sustainable growth for all Namibians. I extend my deepest appreciation to the Government of Namibia, our development partners, civil society, and the people of Namibia for their collaboration, resilience, and dedication to shared progress.