Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for stronger economic cooperation with South Africa, saying both countries must turn their shared liberation history into tangible development for their citizens.
Speaking at the opening of the Fourth Session of the Namibia–South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) Summit in Pretoria on Friday, President Nandi-Ndaitwah thanked South Africa for its hospitality and reaffirmed the long-standing relationship between the two neighbouring countries.
She said Namibia and South Africa’s liberation struggles were closely linked, with freedom fighters from both nations facing persecution under the apartheid regime, adding that the shared history remains the foundation of the Bi-National Commission.
The Namibian leader stressed that although both countries had secured political independence, the focus should now shift to improving economic opportunities and living standards through closer cooperation.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah also urged both governments to resolve the long-standing dispute over the Orange River boundary, expressing hope that years of technical and diplomatic negotiations would culminate in a final agreement during the summit.
She praised South Africa’s Presidential Drought Relief Project for supporting the installation of boreholes in Namibia, saying continued collaboration on water infrastructure would strengthen livelihoods and reinforce the enduring friendship between the two countries.
On regional development, the Namibian President proposed closer energy cooperation involving Namibia, South Africa and Angola, including arrangements to transmit electricity through Namibia to South Africa. She said integrated energy infrastructure would boost industrialisation and economic growth across the region.
She also welcomed future cooperation in nuclear energy once Namibia completes its legal and policy framework, while reaffirming her country’s commitment to tackling climate change based on the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah further called for renewed momentum on reforms within the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), saying a stronger customs bloc would help protect regional economies and promote industrialisation.
Addressing international affairs, she expressed concern over growing global instability, including conflicts, unilateral trade measures and challenges to the international rules-based order.
The Namibian leader commended South Africa’s commitment to international law and reiterated Namibia’s support for the Palestinian people and the people of Western Sahara in their pursuit of self-determination and decolonisation.
She also praised South Africa’s leadership within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), expressing confidence that it would continue to promote regional integration and development.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah concluded by wishing South Africa peaceful municipal elections and expressed optimism that the Fourth Session of the Namibia–South Africa Bi-National Commission would deliver practical outcomes that strengthen bilateral relations and benefit both countries.
Share this content:
About The Author
