NCCI calls for unity
The Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) has called for unity within the business community, warning against public disputes that risk undermining its role as a national advocacy body.
NCCI chief executive officer Titus Nampala said the Chamber should remain focused on promoting an enabling business environment at a time when the economy faces ongoing pressures.
“With the changing trade conditions, the business community needs unity of purpose,” Nampala said. “It is disappointing that a national advocacy body that belongs to all Namibians is being drawn into issues that create division.”
Responding to public claims about NCCI membership levels, Nampala said the Chamber would not engage in debates over numbers. He said membership had not declined during his tenure.
“Our membership has not seen any decline since I took the helm,” Nampala said, adding that this was the result of collective efforts by the NCCI secretariat, branch leaders, business stakeholders and partners who value the role of the Chamber in economic development.
He said the NCCI’s mandate extends beyond its registered members and applies to the wider business community.
“Our responsibility is to help ensure that an enabling operating environment exists for entrepreneurs, investors and traders,” Nampala said. “We act as a link between the private sector and government, including regulators and policymakers.”
Nampala said the Chamber’s work supports commerce across Namibia and is not limited to a specific group of enterprises. He said the NCCI aims to unite businesses of all sizes.
Addressing comments previously attributed to the Ongwediva chairperson, Nampala said the issue had already been resolved. He said the chairperson had publicly indicated that his remarks were taken out of context, and that the NCCI accepted that explanation.
Nampala also clarified that the NCCI does not have a structure known as “Northern Branches”.
“All NCCI branches are established per town or village council, as proclaimed by the relevant authorities,” he said. “Each branch is led by a voluntary executive committee made up of local entrepreneurs. This structure applies across the country.”
He said building a resilient and competitive business environment requires coordination among all advocacy bodies and leaders.
“The challenges faced by entrepreneurs are the same, regardless of membership,” Nampala said. “When we advocate for better policies, we do so for all Namibian businesses.”
Nampala also referred to the role of the media, saying it plays an important part in informing the public and supporting economic activity.
“The media has a responsibility in how information is communicated,” he said. “Building Namibia is a collective task.”
