- By Stefanus Nashama
Newly-appointed presidential press secretary Jonas Mbambo says not even in his wildest dreams did he imagine holding the highest communication office in the land, yet, as of August 1, he will serve as the official spokesperson for Namibia’s head of State.
“I would be lying if I said I saw this coming,” Mbambo told Confidente in an exclusive interview on Tuesday.
“I have always known that I wanted to serve my country in some capacity, but this specific role was never even remotely on my radar. And yet, here we are, called to serve alongside the first female President of Namibia. I am truly humbled by the trust and responsibility placed on me.”
Mbambo was appointed by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah earlier this month, succeeding Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo Hengari, who held the role since 2018. With a background in journalism and broadcasting, Mbambo brings a decade of experience in public engagement and storytelling. He said he feels prepared for the role, crediting divine timing and purpose for this opportunity.
“I truly believe God’s hand is in this. This great responsibility placed on my shoulders is not a coincidence,” he said.
Among his first objectives, Mbambo plans to engage leadership across the media landscape to strengthen relations and uphold transparency. “At the end of the day, we all have a shared responsibility to inform the Namibian people about the President’s agenda. This is not about interfering with press freedom, but far from it. It is about fostering a space for mutual respect, ethical journalism, and open dialogue built on trust.”
He stressed the importance of protecting media freedom, describing it as a cornerstone of Namibia’s democracy. “We hope to work closely with journalists, not as adversaries, but as partners in nation-building,” said Mbambo. Mbambo’s path to State House was anything but conventional. Born into a politically active family, his father was a liberation activist and his grandfather a recognised veteran.
Mbambo said he was surrounded by politics from a young age, though he never saw himself becoming politically involved. He began his professional journey in 2014 as a temporary teacher at Dr. Romanus Kampungu Secondary School in Rundu. A year later, he transitioned into broadcasting with NBC National Radio, where he became known for hosting The 9th Hour and People’s Parliament. He later moved to television, anchoring news and hosting the popular current affairs programme Situation Kritikal, which he led until his recent appointment.
Mbambo encouraged Namibians, especially the youth, to contribute to national development in any way they can. “We all have a role to play. This is not just about now, it is about laying a foundation for generations to come. Even if you don’t have a big platform, make a difference where you are, even when no one is watching.” He also emphasised the importance of citizens understanding and supporting the President’s vision.
“No leader can achieve national transformation alone. It is going to take every Namibian, pulling in the same direction,” he said.
Despite acknowledging the inevitable criticisms that come with public leadership, Mbambo remains optimistic.
“Even if President Nandi-Ndaitwah were to walk on water, someone would say it is because she cannot swim. That is just how it is. But we must remain focused and committed to building the Namibia we believe in.”
