Rundu: Minister of Gender and Social Welfare Emma Kantema on Thursday urged participants in the State-Owned Enterprises Games in Rundu to strengthen partnerships, foster teamwork beyond the sporting arena, and work together to advance service delivery and national development. Kantema made the remarks during the official opening of the event, which brings together nearly 4,500 participants from more than 50 public enterprises for three days of sport, networking, and collaboration. The games end on Saturday. According to Namibia Press Agency, Kantema emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships and embracing teamwork beyond the sporting arena. She noted the transformation of the town due to the influx of participants, expressing gratitude to the organizers for choosing Rundu as the host location. Kantema reminded the participants that public enterprises were established through Acts of Parliament to deliver quality services and contribute to Namibia's socio-economic development. Public Enterprises CEOs' Forum chairperson Fluksman Samuehl highlighted the games' goal of unifying the public enterprise sector and reinforcing its role in national development. He stated the importance of remembering their collective responsibility towards Namibia's development while participating in the event. The event features a variety of sports, including football, netball, volleyball, darts, and tug-of-war, designed to promote employee wellness, teamwork, and cooperation among Namibia's public enterprises. It coincides with the Public Enterprises Chief Executive Officers' Forum Annual General Meeting, where CEOs discuss strategic issues impacting the sector.