By Stefanus Nashama

Shifting geopolitical dynamics and alarm marked by uncertainty, diminishing global security, and stability as well as rising economic protectionism, were among the forces that propelled the appointment of new ambassadors. Announcing the appointment of the fresh crop of Namibian heads of missions, President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah said she has carefully “considered appointing the ambassadors on their experience to navigate bilateral relations during their time of appointment”.

“I expect you to deliver on our commitment. Namibia must get the best out of our bilateral relations, in particular with reference to our economic diplomacy,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah.  She said the appointment this time is only for four years, during which she expects the ambassadors to deliver on their commitments.

The appointed ambassadors are: Amb. Tonata Itenge Emvula Gebhard to the People's Republic of China; Amb. Monica Ndiliawike Nashandi - Russian Federation; Amb. Wilbard Shihepo Manique Hellao - United States of America; Amb. Sophia Kakena Kauna Nangula-Sweden; Amb. Benjamin Kandanga - Republic of Finland; Amb. Jerobeam Shaanika - Federal Republic of Germany; Amb. Sabine Bohlke Moller - French Republic; Amb. Lebbius Tobias - Republic of Cuba; Amb. Sipapela Cletius Sipapela - Democratic Republic of Congo; and Amb. Elvis Toolouta Shiweda – Swiss Confederation. 

“Many of you are seasoned professionals who have represented our country with honour and distinction before. I have entrusted you with this responsibility because of your proven competence and unwavering dedication to Namibia,” she stated. Nandi-Ndaitwah urged the new appointees to use their positions to create opportunities for Namibians, particularly the youth. 
She also called on them to work tirelessly to secure market access for Namibian products and to connect citizens with global talent and enterprises in diverse industries, including the creative sector.

She emphasised that ambassadors should act as bridges linking Namibia’s emerging talents with international opportunities and innovative platforms.  According to her, Namibia attaches great importance to diplomacy, not only in advancing bilateral and multilateral relations but also in fostering stronger people-to-people connections with its partners abroad.

“As envoys to your respective countries, you are not only representatives of your government, but also custodians of the enduring ties that bind Namibia and your countries of accreditation together. As you take up your assignments, always remain mindful of Namibia’s historic journey.” she said. The President reminded the diplomats that Namibia’s foreign policy is rooted in Pan-Africanism and international solidarity, principles shaped by the country’s history of dispossession and liberation struggle.
“The freedom we enjoy today was bought at a high price. 

Many of our forebears laid down their lives, enduring sacrifice and hardship, so that we could live in a free Namibia.”
Nandi-Ndaitwah also urged the ambassadors to serve as role models, inspiring young Namibians to pursue careers in diplomacy and public service.  She further tasked them with mobilizing support for humanitarian projects in the Namibian regions assigned to their missions.

She call for integrity, courage, vision, and dignity in the execution of their duties. “Remember, you carry more than Namibia’s flag. You carry its hopes and dreams, its sacrifices and its future. Let your services be marked by integrity, courage, vision and dignity,” she said. At the same time, Nandi-Ndaitwah also announced that she will soon appoint another round of heads of mission once the accreditation process is completed.

“I will also be commissioning a new crop of heads of mission as soon as the accreditation process to their respective posts is finalised,” she said.