IPC questions government's 500,000 jobs promise and economic strategy
The Independent Patriots for Change IPC has challenged the Namibian government on its promise to create 500,000 jobs, stating that job creation requires more than speeches and diplomatic ceremonies. IPC shadow minister of international relations and trade Rodney Cloete emphasized that jobs are generated through business expansion, manufacturing, agricultural market access, infrastructure development, and operational investments. Cloete questioned the government's progress under the African Continental Free Trade Area, noting that Namibia has reportedly issued only nine certificates of origin for exports to Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria since trading began in June 2025. The IPC also raised concerns about rail infrastructure, citing that TransNamib's last recorded train movement between Ondangwa and Oshikango was on July 12, 2024, despite the railway being maintained. The party highlighted the US$753 million financing for the Lobito railway in Angola, suggesting that cargo will favor more efficient routes. Cloete advocated for a proactive economic diplomacy focused on market access, trade barrier removal, securing orders for Namibian companies, and attracting job-creating investments. The IPC stated it would evaluate the government's economic diplomacy based on the conversion of agreements into tangible markets, exports, factories, and jobs.
