EDITORIAL
In two weeks, the year 2025 will draw to a close. It has been a year that was both rewarding and difficult in equal measure.
Namibia demonstrated consistent resilience in the face of a multitude of challenges. Chief among these was the growing unemployment rate, particularly among economically active young people. Inequality and poverty also remain the country’s most persistent adversaries, continuing to pose a herculean task, albeit with solutions gradually coming into view.
Corruption, too, continued to rear its ugly head, to the detriment of public service delivery, development and the equitable distribution of resources. This was starkly illustrated by yet another scandal at the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (Namcor), where the company allegedly lost millions of dollars through calculated mismanagement and deals reportedly structured in a nefarious manner. Those implicated are likely to spend their festive season behind bars as court processes unfold. This episode stands out as one of the darkest chapters of the year.
On a more positive note, Namibia recorded notable achievements on both the domestic and international fronts. It remains the only country in the world where the three most powerful political positions are held by women. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Vice President Lucia Witbooi and Speaker of Parliament Sara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila together represent a remarkable milestone.
This is a commendable achievement in an era where gender parity remains a pressing challenge across Africa and the rest of the world. While Namibia continues to make progress in this regard, many countries still pay little more than lip service to such an important issue.
The country has also signaled its intention to fine-tune policies to ensure that citizens derive tangible benefits from Namibia’s natural resources — another step in the right direction.
Like many years before it, and undoubtedly many to come, 2025 has been a mixed bag. It serves as a reminder that while better fortunes may lie ahead, persistent challenges require reflection, accountability and a commitment to do better.
Crowning such a consequential year was the launch of Namibia Business Review — an idea born out of resilience, consistency and the need to provide cutting-edge, in-depth and analytical business reporting tailored to the needs of the Namibian market. The journey has not been easy, but we have carved out our niche in our own distinctive way.
The next chapter will inevitably bring new challenges. Embarking on a media entrepreneurial journey is no small feat, particularly in an industry grappling with multiple structural and financial pressures. It demands determination, support and constant evolution to survive.
And survive, we did over the past six months.
THANK YOU
We do not take lightly the overwhelming support we have received from our readers, viewers and advertisers. This growth is reflected in our increasing subscription numbers, expanding social media following and meaningful engagement with our audience. This encouragement fuels our commitment to continue delivering high-quality business news and analysis, and we look forward to even greater growth in the future.
It is indeed you who make us great.
Namibia Business Review will officially close the year with this edition. Our first edition of 2026 will be published on 19 January. However, we will continue to provide updates through our website and social media platforms throughout the festive season.
As a team, we wish all our partners, readers, viewers and advertisers a joyful festive season filled with rest, renewal and renewed determination for growth in the year ahead.
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