Outstanding individuals and institutions driving Namibia’s green transition were celebrated on Thursday evening at the 5th Sustainable Development Awards Gala Ceremony in the capital.
Hosted by the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF) in partnership with the Sustainable Development Advisory Council and key industry stakeholders, the event recognised impactful local initiatives making significant contributions to the nation’s environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth.
Themed “Empowering Namibian Youth for a Sustainable Future,” the event recognised individuals, institutions, organisations and communities whose leadership, innovation and commitment are contributing to a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable Namibia. Each winner will be rewarded with N$20,000.
The winners across the 12 categories are:
Private Sector Champions – Start-ups: Jacob Irungu
Private Sector Champions – Established: Hangana Seafood
Private Sector Champions – SME: Ubuntu Aquatics
Community-level Natural Resource Management: Rural Revive Community Development
Research and Development: Dr Maria Kanyama
Youth Action for Sustainable Development: Martin Shuudeni
Pioneering Journalism – Best Print: Absalom Shigwedha
Pioneering Journalism – Best Television: Hertha Ekandjo
Pioneering Journalism – Best Digital Media: Zee Media
Women and Environment: Honourable Ester Haikola – Sakaria
Green Financial Services: Development Bank of Namibia
Thought Leadership Award: Dr Peter Tarr
The Vice President, Lucia Witbooi, who was the guest of honour, emphasised that sustainable development is not the responsibility of government alone but a shared national endeavour that requires the commitment and participation of all sectors of society, particularly young people.
“Sustainability should not be viewed simply as an environmental obligation; rather, it should be understood as an opportunity to broaden our economy, create jobs and foster innovation and inclusion,” the VP said.
Witbooi stressed that unlocking this potential requires deliberate investment in education, skills development, employment, entrepreneurship, innovation and access to opportunity.
She highlighted the opportunities presented by emerging sectors, such as digital technologies, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, green hydrogen, climate finance and the circular economy, and called on youth to become active participants, innovators and producers in these growing industries.
She also emphasised the importance of positioning sustainability at the centre of Namibia’s economic transformation, noting the country’s potential in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, conservation, tourism, digital services and other emerging green industries.
The Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Indileni Daniel, stated that the awards are more than a bi-annual celebration, but a platform that gives visibility to people who are making a difference, often without recognition.
“When we honour someone for protecting our natural resources, we are saying that conservation matters. When we honour a researcher, we are saying that knowledge matters. When we honour a young person, we are saying that age must never be a barrier to contribution,” the Minister said.
The Minister further highlighted the importance of ensuring that youth empowerment translates into practical opportunities, including education, skills development, entrepreneurship, access to finance and mentorship.
Zee Media wins best Digital Media Awards in Pioneering Journalism category.
