Namibia is positioning itself as a prime destination for investment and green industrialisation as the second Namibia-European Union Business Forum seeks to unlock new economic opportunities, partnerships and job creation.
Speaking at the forum on Wednesday, Namibia’s ambassador to Belgium, Alfredo Hengari, said the gathering reflects the growing strength and importance of the Namibia-EU partnership.
“These discussions are particularly crucial as Namibia continues to position itself as a key investment destination and a hub for green industries,” he said.
Held under the theme ‘Towards Stronger, Greener and More Diversified Economies’, the forum aims to strengthen partnerships in investment, industrial cooperation, innovation and skills development.
Hengari said Namibia is determined to move beyond the export of critical raw materials towards value addition, manufacturing, technology transfer and job creation across different sectors of the economy.
He noted that cooperation between Namibia and the EU has steadily expanded since engagements at COP27 in Egypt and the first EU-Namibia Business Forum held in Brussels in October 2023.
Key focus areas include green hydrogen and renewable energy, critical raw materials, agribusiness, automotive manufacturing, culture and creative industries, vocational education and training, investment promotion and industrialisation.
“As we take stock and chart new terrain for the Namibia-EU partnership, we are reminded of the words of the late president Hage Geingob, who stated: ‘Only when we hold hands as partners will we collectively stand a chance,’” Hengari said.
He added that the success of the forum will be measured by the investments unlocked, industries developed, skills created and opportunities generated for future generations.
