New york: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Monday reaffirmed Namibia's commitment to growing its creative and cultural industry. The Namibian head of state said the sector holds the potential to create jobs, drive economic growth, and position the country as a world-class film production destination. Speaking at the 'Experience Namibia in New York' cultural showcase, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, she said Namibia's stories of resistance, independence and progress must be documented and shared, particularly with the youth.

According to Namibia Press Agency, quoting Founding President Sam Nujoma, Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed that 'a nation without culture is like a tree without roots,' underlining the importance of cultural preservation. She highlighted Namibia's achievements in global rankings, including leading in gender equality in Africa, while noting the country's growing presence in film production. Namibia has hosted international blockbusters such as 'Mad Max: Fury Road' and 'The Mummy', and recently welcomed actor Eric Roberts during the filming of 'Skeleton Coast.'

'In this vein, the creative and cultural industry is fundamentally about crafting and sharing stories. Stories deeply embedded in our cultures, our languages, our history and our vision. Today, we are launching a platform that will build capacity and empower our youth to monetise their talents,' she said. The president announced that the Government has allocated N.dollars 50 million to the hosting of the 2025 National Arts and Creative Industry Awards.

She further revealed plans for the establishment of a Special Economic Zone for the film industry in collaboration with key stakeholders to develop and grow the creative industry. Nandi-Ndaitwah added that the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) intensifies investment promotion efforts to position Namibia as an international, world-class film production destination.

'This initiative is not just about infrastructure; it is about unlocking talent, attracting global productions, and building a thriving creative economy that benefits our communities and the world,' she said. ''Experience Namibia in New York', organised by the NIPDB, is just the beginning of the work we are doing to ensure Namibia becomes exactly that: a world-class film production destination,' Nandi-Ndaitwah said.