24 June 2026, Ondangwa, Namibia – The Rössing Foundation officially inaugurated its upgraded Ondangwa Centre, now known as the Ondangwa Multipurpose Digital Centre, during a ceremony officiated by the President of the Republic of Namibia, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
The event marked three major milestones: the completion of a N$37.18 million transformation of the Ondangwa Centre, funded by Rössing Uranium Limited, into a modern digital and conferencing hub; the receipt of 73 interactive science models valued at N$6.05 million, donated by the China Foundation for Development of Science and Technology; and the official naming of the Multipurpose Centre as the Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah Science Exhibition Hall.
The exhibition hall was named in recognition of the President’s passion for advancing education, particularly science and technology.
The facility was officially inaugurated by President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in the presence of regional and government leaders, traditional authorities, development partners, educators, learners and community members from across the country.
Throughout its history, the Foundation has remained committed to creating opportunities that enable individuals and communities to realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to national development.
The Centre was refurbished through a substantial contribution from Rössing Uranium as the mine celebrated its 50th anniversary on 26 June 2026.
The launch of the refurbished Ondangwa Centre and Science Exhibition and Technology Hub represents the next chapter in that journey.
The facility has been designed to serve as a regional hub for science education, innovation, technology engagement, skills development and community learning. It will provide young Namibians with opportunities to explore, discover and prepare for a rapidly evolving world.
It will also help address a gap in Namibia’s meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions sector, particularly in the northern regions.
Equipped with state-of-the-art boardrooms and conferencing halls, the facility is available for commercial and public reservations and bookings.
“At every stage of human development, science has played a great role, knowingly or unknowingly. Therefore, in the world of high technology, science and scientific knowledge make it possible for us to develop new technologies, solve practical problems and make informed decisions. The establishment of this Science Centre is therefore highly appreciated.”
— President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah
Her Excellency also emphasised the importance of investing in young people.
“This Centre has come at a time when our government has moved to another level in its programmes for youth development and empowerment, enabling young people to lead our national development agenda towards prosperity.
“It is a fact that every nation that aspires to prosperity must invest in its people. It must invest in education, science, technology and innovation. Above all, it must create opportunities for young people to realise their full potential.”
— President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah
The Governor of the Oshana Region, Hon. Hofni Iipinge, welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the significance of the Centre to the region.
“The refurbishment of this Centre and the establishment of a modern Science Exhibition and Technology Hub represent a significant investment in the future of northern Namibia.
“As a region, Oshana remains committed to creating opportunities for our youth. We recognise that education, science, technology and innovation are no longer optional; they are essential pillars for economic growth, job creation, industrial development and national competitiveness.
“This Centre therefore arrives at the right time, as our country advances towards a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy.”
— Hon. Hofni Iipinge, Governor of the Oshana Region
Minister Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Namibia, Shen Jian, reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Namibia’s development.
“Namibia has made great strides in its national social and economic development. Like many foreign observers, I firmly believe that Namibia will witness rapid development across all sectors in the coming five to ten years.
“China will continue to be a major development partner for Namibia, and we stand ready to provide even greater support to our Namibian friends in areas of need.”
— Shen Jian, Minister Counsellor, Chinese Embassy in Namibia
Johan Coetzee, Managing Director of Rössing Uranium, highlighted the importance of investing in technology and innovation.
“We believe that digital literacy, scientific curiosity and technological innovation are fundamental drivers of economic growth and social progress.
“By investing in these areas, we are helping young people participate meaningfully in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the knowledge economy of the future.”
— Johan Coetzee, Managing Director, Rössing Uranium
JIN Yinan, Deputy Secretary of the Foundation for the Development of Science and Technology in China, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to advancing science and technology.
“FDSTC has always been committed to enhancing public scientific literacy, nurturing scientific talent, supporting the commercialisation of technological innovation and fostering cultural and scientific exchanges.
“Through our network of national scientific societies, local science associations, grassroots science organisations, international non-governmental science bodies, state-owned enterprises, listed companies, investment institutions, and science and technology organisations worldwide, FDSTC remains committed to global technological progress and the sustainable development of humanity.”
— JIN Yinan, Deputy Secretary, Foundation for the Development of Science and Technology in China
ZHANG Tao, President of the China National Nuclear Corporation, spoke about the significance of the partnership.
“This project represents not only CNNC’s commitment to social responsibility but also serves as a vivid example of how China and Namibia are building a shared future through education and youth engagement.
“As a leader in China’s nuclear industry, CNNC is actively implementing the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping and promoting the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind.”
— ZHANG Tao, President, China National Nuclear Corporation
Chairperson of the Rössing Foundation Board, Gida Nakazibwe Sekandi, accepted the donations on behalf of the Board and reflected on the Foundation’s longstanding mission.
“For the Rössing Foundation, this Centre represents the very essence of our mission. For over four decades, the Foundation has worked alongside communities across Namibia to advance education, capacity building and sustainable development.
“We have always believed that lasting progress is achieved not through charity alone, but through creating opportunities that empower people to improve their own lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
— Gida Nakazibwe Sekandi, Chairperson, Rössing Foundation Board
Rössing Foundation Board Member and Managing Director of Monasa Advisories and Associates, Jason Kasuto, highlighted the vision for the exhibition hall.
“The Rössing Foundation carries a vision for this place to become a space where children are not only introduced to science, but are able to experience it in a practical and meaningful way.
“Through interactive learning and discovery, the aim is to bring science closer to young people, spark curiosity, and ensure that Namibian youth are positioned at the forefront of science and innovation, ready to engage with opportunities both locally and globally.”
— Jason Kasuto, Rössing Foundation Board Member
As the Rössing Foundation approaches five decades of service, the Ondangwa Multipurpose Digital Centre stands as a symbol of renewal, partnership and a shared commitment to building a more knowledgeable, innovative and prosperous Namibia.
Contributed by Rössing Uranium
