Ndaitwah highlights the importance of Multilateral System Reform at Amani Africa Inaugural Meeting – Namibia Daily News

Lylie Happiness

Windhoek, 18 July 2023 – Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, delivered yesterday her welcoming remarks yesterday at the Amani Africa Inaugural meeting of the High-Level Panel of Experts on Africa and the Reform of the Multilateral System. She emphasized the crucial nature of multilateral system reform for both Namibia and the African continent, calling for the United Nations (UN) to be reformed to ensure regional representation in the UN Security Council.

This consultation holds particular significance in Namibia due to the country’s history. President H.E. Dr. Hage Geingob consistently underscores that “Namibia is a child of international solidarity, midwifed by the UN system,” a sentiment deeply understood and embraced by the Namibian people.

To reaffirm their belief in multilateralism, Namibia’s constitution commits the state to pursuing policies that encourage the peaceful settlement of international disputes. It is essential to emphasize that resolving international conflicts through dialogue is integral to the multilateral system as encapsulated in the UN Charter, aiming to save future generations from the devastating effects of war. Nandi-Ndaitwah urged deep reflection and posed thought-provoking questions on the kind of
multilateral system that can foster sustainable peace and drive socio-economic development.

The necessity for fair regional representation in the UN Security Council must continue to be emphasized by Africa, a powerful bloc of 54 UN Member States plus Western Sahara. In order for the Security Council to represent the interests of all peoples on Earth, this calls for changing the UN Charter to reflect Africa’s intent and desire for permanent representation.

The belief comes from confronting the historical injustice that was inflicted on Africa as a result of its exclusion from permanent membership and UN Security Council veto power. Additionally, through the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), collaborative efforts are required to bear the cost of the multilateral system and contribute to the global public good of international peace and security.

The conviction lies in addressing the historic injustice imposed on Africa by its exclusion from permanent membership and veto power in the UN Security Council. Furthermore, collective efforts are needed to share the burden of the multilateral system and contribute to the global public good of international peace and security through the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA).

In addition to reforming the international peace and security architecture, it is crucial to examine the overall development system, particularly the reform of international financial and economic orders. This includes multilateral bodies such as the World Bank, IMF, and the World Trade Organization.

Despite the fact that Africa’s resources play a key role in the growth of the world, there is still a misconception that Africa is only a source of raw materials, ignoring its potential for value addition and self-development. ~Namibia Daily News