Rosa Namises spoke to us on:”The Balance of Presidential Travel: A Call for Domestic Engagement”

Social Activist Rosa Namises sat down with us to briefly speak on President Hage G Geingob’s traveling. Here’s the full interview.

“The importance of a president’s international travel cannot be understated; however, there’s an equally critical need for them to invest quality time within the country. While traveling involves meeting other leaders, which is essential, it’s equally vital for a leader to engage with their own citizens within the nation.

Often, presidential trips revolve around meetings with other world leaders, but the focus should also encompass spending time with the citizens, engaging directly with them. While it’s acknowledged that the president’s visits to local social spots like shebeens might show an attempt at interaction, there’s a larger need for direct engagement within communities.

Rather than solely frequenting these social venues, there’s a pressing need for the president to visit places like old age homes, hospitals, and schools, especially during critical times such as when students face post-exam anxieties or families struggle during festive seasons.

The responsibility of engaging with the community should not be solely delegated to the First Lady. The elected president plays a pivotal role in connecting with the citizens, addressing their concerns, and actively participating in critical discussions at home.

The concern over the frequency of presidential travel arises not only due to the expenses incurred but also the perceived lack of visible returns from these trips. The question lingers: what substantial benefits are these trips yielding for the country and its people? The cost of travel, including the entourage accompanying the president, raises concerns when the gains aren’t clearly articulated.

The call for domestic engagement isn’t about curtailing international involvement but balancing it with a meaningful presence at home. It’s about understanding the tangible impact of presidential visits, not just for the office but for the populace, ensuring that these engagements bring forth practical benefits for the nation.

In essence, it’s not about dismissing the importance of travel but emphasizing the significance of maintaining a balance between international commitments and addressing critical issues on the domestic front.”