Namibia’s economy expands as President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s Cabinet and policy plan take shape

Namibia’s economy is on track for continued growth in 2025, according to the latest Quarterly Economic Review from the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR). The report, released this month and authored by veteran economist Robin Sherbourne, forecasts a 3.8 percent rise in gross domestic product (GDP), driven by easing inflation, robust foreign reserves, and a cut in the central bank’s repo rate to 6.75 percent—its lowest level in over two years.

The report underscores a continuing recovery following 14 consecutive quarters of economic growth, including a 2.9 percent increase in Q3 2024. The review offers a broad assessment of macroeconomic indicators, but also places significant emphasis on political and policy developments unfolding in early 2025.

Chief among them is the Swapo Manifesto Implementation Plan (SMIP), a 66-page document published in February. The plan lays out detailed policy goals and delivery timelines following the ruling party’s electoral platform launched ahead of the September 2024 vote. IPPR’s review characterizes the SMIP as a potentially meaningful step toward greater governmental accountability, though its success will ultimately hinge on execution.

In parallel with these policy announcements, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah initiated a sweeping Cabinet reshuffle that significantly reduced the size of government. The number of ministries dropped from 21 to 14, and deputy ministers were cut from 21 to just six. The changes brought new faces to the political stage—eight appointees are newcomers to the National Assembly—and tilted the balance of power slightly, with half the Cabinet now composed of women.

Key appointments include Lucia Witbooi as Vice President, Elijah Ngurare as Prime Minister, and Erica Shafudah as Minister of Finance and Social Grants. The new leadership team is expected to play a central role in executing the administration’s policy goals in the months ahead.

However, early signs of friction have already emerged. In April, Albert “Mac” Hengari, newly appointed to the Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform portfolio, was dismissed after being charged with obstructing justice in connection with a rape investigation.

Beyond its political insights, the QER features the IPPR’s regular digest of data trends, economic indicators, and policy summaries—designed to serve both decision-makers and the broader public as Namibia transitions into the next phase of its development.

Still, uncertainty remains. The country’s recent reclassification to lower-middle-income status has stirred debate over whether Namibia is retreating from its long-term vision of attaining high-income status by 2030. For the government, the challenge now lies in delivering on ambitious promises amid tightening fiscal conditions and rising public expectations.

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