Namibian President Calls for Security Council Reform at UN Debate
During the second day of discussions at the United Nations General Assembly, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia, urged for reform of the United Nations Security Council, highlighting Africa as a “special and priority case” to address what she termed the continent’s “historical injustice,” reports 24brussels.
She addressed pivotal issues such as youth unemployment, economic inequality, and insufficient basic services, which are significant problems in Namibia. The President noted that her government comprises 57% women, reflecting a commitment to gender equality and the “collective commitment to women, peace and security.”
Identifying critical sectors for development, Nandi-Ndaitwah stated, “We have identified agriculture, sports, youth empowerment, education, and housing as essential areas that we must promote, in line with the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030.”
The President also highlighted Namibia’s efforts to diversify energy sources and manage the impacts of climate change, declaring, “Droughts and floods are undeniable and have a significant impact on the environment.”
Addressing the longstanding issue of Western Sahara, Nandi-Ndaitwah called for a UN-supervised referendum for the Sahrawi people, 34 years after Resolution 690 of 1991, reiterating the need for self-determination.
Additionally, she appealed for the lifting of the economic embargo against Cuba and the removal of the country from the list of states sponsoring terrorism, as well as advocating for an end to sanctions against Venezuela.
Highlighting recent findings from a fact-finding commission regarding the occupied Palestinian territories, the Namibian leader noted the acknowledgment of genocide occurring in Gaza. In response, she called on the Security Council to act decisively to end the conflict, stating, “International law cannot be a tool in the hands of selfish interests, but rather a means to protect the most vulnerable.”
In her closing remarks, she reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflicts, respect for international law, and solidarity in addressing global challenges.