Namibian ambassador to France Albertus Aochamub says African countries are not in the market for charity but to do business.
Aochamub was addressing Meetings Africa this week, where the continent’s tourism businesses and government representatives exhibit and discuss the sectors’ needs.
“African countries do not ask for aid. African countries seek trade. African countries do not seek charity. African countries seek collaborators,” he said.
He made these remarks amid calls for Africa to be less dependent on countries and their organisations, such as the United States Agency for International Development.
The US government froze funding and aid to foreign countries for 90 days in early January, leaving millions in limbo for health supplies and employment.
Aochamub said Africa can solve its own problems.
“From fintech hubs in Lagos and Nairobi, Nigeria, to renewable energy breakthroughs in Namibia and Morocco, African countries are producing solutions not just for themselves, but for the world,” he said.
Despite these efforts, the ambassador said, the continent continues to have an import dependency.
“African countries have 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land — yet we still import food.
“African countries hold 60% of the world’s solar energy potential — yet much of it remains untapped,” Aochamub added.
