Windhoek – Namibia is actively engaging with the global community to tackle common challenges and create opportunities for its citizens. This was the message conveyed by Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Regional Bureau Cluster meeting in Windhoek.

According to Namibian Press Agency (NAMPA), achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in Namibia requires a collective commitment, dedication, collaboration, and innovation. She emphasized that the SDGs represent a global consensus to address urgent challenges and promote sustainable development, and Namibia’s success is closely linked to the success of international cooperation.

UNDP Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director Ahunna Eziakonwa highlighted the organization’s commitment to a ‘FutureSmart Africa’ as part of its strategic plan for 2022-2025. This commitment was solidified at the regional bureau meeting held in Nairobi in 2022, where the UNDP agreed on five key areas of focus, including accelerating development priorities, investing in technology and innovation, engaging in transformative governance, promoting regional integration through AfCFTA, and addressing climate change.

Eziakonwa reported progress in leveraging Africa’s resources, stating that UNDP Africa is leading the way in using these resources to finance development and create wealth on the continent. She also noted significant advances in technology and innovation in Africa, with the creation of ‘timbuktoo’, which aims to be Africa’s biggest innovation ecosystem builder.