By Emmanuel Nduka Obisue
Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has assumed direct control of the country’s powerful Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy after removing Natangwe Ithete from his positions as Deputy Prime Minister and minister overseeing the portfolio.
The Presidency announced the decision in a statement on Sunday, citing the need for “continuity and effective coordination within this key sector”. It said: “In the interest of ensuring continuity and effective coordination within this key sector, President Nandi-Ndaitwah will assume responsibility for the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy, effective immediately”.
No reason was given for Ithete’s dismissal. He had been appointed to the dual roles in March, following the inauguration of Nandi-Ndaitwah’s new administration. The statement added that Ithete will continue to serve as a member of parliament.
Namibia, rich in diamonds, uranium, and recent offshore oil discoveries, is positioning itself as a major energy player in Southern Africa. The government aims to begin crude oil production by 2030, following several high-profile exploration successes that have drawn global attention.
By taking personal charge of the ministry, analysts say President Nandi-Ndaitwah is signaling her intent to maintain tighter oversight of Namibia’s most strategic and economically significant sectors.
