Event Summary
Recent statements by senior Namibian leaders signal a deteriorating enabling environment for civil society organisations (CSOs).
On 27 July 2025, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, speaking in her capacity as leader of the Swapo Party at the Liberation Movements Summit in Johannesburg, issued a strong criticism of foreign-funded civil society organisations. Addressing representatives from former liberation movements across southern Africa, she linked CSOs and opposition parties to foreign efforts aimed at regime change, grouping them with economic warfare tactics such as sanctions and tariffs. This marks her first overtly hostile statement toward civil society since assuming office on 21 March 2025. The timing and tone of her remarks stand in stark contrast to earlier official positions. Just nine days prior, on 18 July, the President launched Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which described civil society as a “key driver of national progress” and called for structured engagement. Her previous public references to CSOs have been diplomatically neutral, suggesting partnership rather than confrontation. The abrupt shift in rhetoric—particularly on an international stage—raises concerns about a hardening stance toward civil society.
On 28 July 2025, at the 15th Summit of Women Speakers of Parliament in Geneva, National Assembly Speaker Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila criticised direct donor funding to CSOs, arguing that such organisations lack democratic legitimacy and may not represent broader societal interests.
These remarks, delivered on prominent international platforms, reflect a growing narrative that delegitimises civil society and questions its role in governance and development. The framing of CSOs as undemocratic or externally manipulated introduces reputational risks and may undermine public trust. It also signals potential policy shifts that could restrict funding channels, impose regulatory constraints, or limit civic engagement.
The cumulative effect of these statements suggests a narrowing of civic space, with implications for advocacy, service delivery, and democratic accountability. International donors and local actors should monitor developments closely, engage in dialogue with government counterparts, and assess risk exposure for CSOs operating in Namibia. Strategic responses may be needed to safeguard civil society’s role and ensure continued support for inclusive governance.