Aupindi: Equality of resources would best honour Nujoma

The most meaningful way to honour the legacy of Namibia’s late founding president, Sam Nujoma, is to ensure that all Namibians have equal access to national resources and economic opportunities, Swapo parliamentarian Dr Tobie Aupindi has said.

Speaking on The Evening Review on Monday, Aupindi underlined that Nujoma’s vision for Namibia was one where citizens benefit equitably from the country’s wealth, without systemic barriers restricting access to markets.

“He only thought about the people of Namibia, and I think we can repay him and celebrate his life by ensuring that the natural resources within our country are managed and exploited for the full and maximum benefit of all our people,” Aupindi said.

His remarks come in the wake of the ongoing red line court case, which critics argue has perpetuated economic disparities by limiting market access for certain Namibians. A judgment in the case, initiated by activist Job Amupanda, is expected on 27 March.

Nujoma, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 95, led Namibia as head of state from 1990 to 2005 and was at the helm of Swapo for 47 years, both as a liberation movement and a political party. Under his leadership, Namibia navigated post-independence challenges, but the red line – a veterinary cordon fence restricting the movement of livestock from the northern regions – has remained in place, often to the detriment of northern farmers.

Aupindi stressed that dismantling systemic inequalities would be a fitting tribute to Nujoma’s enduring legacy.

Rich vs poor

Aupindi decried Namibia’s dual economic system, where some citizens thrive while others remain marginalised. He highlighted disparities in access to financial, technological and capital markets, saying that such inequalities contradict the ideals Nujoma fought for.

“It is unacceptable for us to maintain an economic system where some flourish while others are left behind. Some have access to lucrative markets, while others are systematically excluded. Some live in proper housing, while others face constant threats of displacement due to floods,” he pointed out.

He further criticised the over-reliance on social welfare programmes to bridge the gap, arguing that systemic change is necessary to create lasting economic inclusion.

“What we need to do is change the market in its entire institutional context so that all our people have access to economic opportunities,” Aupindi argued.

Fairer distribution needed

Namibia is rich in natural resources, particularly minerals such as uranium, diamonds, gold and copper.

However, much of the ownership of these resources remains concentrated in the hands of multinational corporations and a small elite within the country.

Despite policies aimed at ensuring local participation, many Namibians still struggle to access the benefits of resource extraction.

State-owned enterprises such as Epangelo Mining have been established to increase national control over the sector, but challenges persist in ensuring broader community participation.

The government has also implemented policies requiring local partnerships in mining ventures, yet disparities remain in wealth distribution.

According to Aupindi, addressing these imbalances is crucial to realising Nujoma’s vision of economic justice. Experts argue that reforms in resource governance, such as greater transparency and inclusive ownership structures, could help ensure that Namibia’s mineral wealth serves all its people rather than a privileged few.

Realising the Nujoma dream

Aupindi urged policymakers to take decisive steps to reform economic structures, ensuring all Namibians – regardless of their background – can participate meaningfully in the nation’s wealth.

“In so doing, no one will be left behind and everyone will celebrate an independent Namibia because Nujoma's dream was always that everyone must enjoy a piece of Namibia, no matter who you are or where you come from,” he emphasised.