Africa Bazaar Staffwriter | Oct. 26, 2025
In a significant leadership development for Namibia’s economic and energy sectors, President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said she has relieved Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry, Mines and Energy Natangwe Ithete of his duties, effective immediately. The decision, made under Article 32(6) of the Namibian Constitution, was announced by the President on Sunday.
In order to ensure stability, strategic continuity, and effective policy coordination, President Nandi-Ndaitwah will assume direct responsibility and oversight for the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy. The move marks a pivotal strategic economic move and comes as Namibia positions itself as a leading hub for sustainable industrialization, energy innovation, and critical mineral development on the African continent.
The Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy plays a central role in Namibia’s long-term economic transformation. It drives national policies in mining, manufacturing, and energy — sectors that account for a significant share of GDP and foreign investment. With Namibia emerging as one of Africa’s frontrunners in green hydrogen, renewable energy, and value-added mineral processing, the Ministry’s leadership is critical to advancing both domestic priorities and regional economic integration.
By taking direct control, the President signals her administration’s commitment to strengthening institutional accountability, accelerating project delivery, and aligning government and private-sector initiatives. The decision is expected to enhance investor confidence and reinforce Namibia’s image as a stable, reform-oriented investment destination.
In its official statement, the President expressed appreciation to Honourable Ithete for his service and contributions to the government and people of Namibia. Ithete will continue to serve as a Member of Parliament, contributing to national policymaking.
During his tenure, the Ministry pursued key initiatives aimed at expanding industrial capacity, promoting renewable energy adoption, and reforming mining policies to enhance domestic beneficiation. These efforts formed part of Namibia’s broader agenda to diversify its economy and create sustainable jobs.
The leadership change comes amid growing international attention to Namibia’s role in the global energy transition. The country has attracted substantial investment commitments in green hydrogen, solar, and critical minerals such as lithium and rare earth elements — essential to clean energy technologies worldwide.
Analysts note that Namibia’s proactive approach to policy clarity, coupled with strong executive oversight, has made it a magnet for investors seeking stability and opportunity in Africa’s emerging markets. President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s assumption of the Industry, Mines and Energy portfolio is expected to consolidate these gains by ensuring strategic policy execution and timely delivery of national and cross-border projects.
The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to sound governance, transparency, and the effective implementation of Namibia’s Vision 2030 and Harambee Prosperity Plan II. Central to this vision is the pursuit of inclusive and sustainable economic growth, supported by innovation, industrial modernization, and regional cooperation.
As Namibia deepens its engagement with international partners and investors, the President’s direct oversight is widely viewed as a signal of the country’s readiness to manage its expanding industrial and energy portfolio with both agility and accountability
