As the Eighth Parliament adjourns for its mid-year recess, calls have emerged for the legislature to evolve its agenda to match Namibia’s changing economic outlook, driven by the discovery of offshore oil and gas, green hydrogen projects, and demand for critical minerals.
Economic Transformation and Legislation
During the session, Parliament processed five Bills, 21 motions, and 51 parliamentary questions. Key legislative work included the annual Appropriation Bill for the 2026/27 financial year, as well as amendments to public procurement and the judiciary to strengthen public institutions and accountability.
While these achievements provide a foundation of stability, it has been argued that Parliament must now become an active driver of economic transformation. With the global economy being reshaped by artificial intelligence and transitioning energy systems, there is a need for modern legislation to attract long-term capital and capture new industries.
Priority reforms are needed in areas including:
- Digital commerce and artificial intelligence
- Public-private partnerships
- Investment promotion and local beneficiation
- Municipal finance and housing delivery
The goal of these reforms is to provide the certainty and predictable regulation that international investors seek, while ensuring ordinary Namibians can participate in emerging industries.
Addressing Youth Substance Abuse
Alongside economic concerns, the National Council is investigating a crisis involving youth use of “Hubbly Bubbly” and vaping. Reports indicate that children as young as 10 are using these products, with some mixing them with cannabis and alcohol.
Medical experts warn that nicotine dependence can develop rapidly in young people, contributing to mental-health problems, behavioral issues, and long-term respiratory damage. There are also reports of academically gifted learners losing interest in their studies due to addiction.
Because existing tobacco-control legislation was enacted over a decade ago, it may not adequately address modern hookah culture and vaping products. There are calls for Parliament to close these legislative gaps by strengthening the regulation of advertising, marketing, and sales, and ensuring that retailers who sell nicotine products to minors face meaningful consequences.
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