President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has challenged Namibia and Angola to turn their longstanding political ties into concrete business deals that create jobs, boost industrialisation, and improve citizens’ livelihoods.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has challenged Namibia and Angola to turn their longstanding political ties into concrete business deals that create jobs, boost industrialisation, and improve citizens’ livelihoods.
Addressing the Angola-Namibia Business Forum in Luanda on Monday, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the two countries must move beyond political friendship towards joint investments, manufacturing and expanded trade.
“Our task is clear: to transform our longstanding political relations between Namibia and Angola into a strategic and dynamic economic partnership,” she said.
She urged both countries to reduce their reliance on exporting raw materials while importing manufactured goods that could be produced locally, saying natural resources should drive industrialisation and sustainable economic growth.
The president identified agriculture, mining, fishing, oil and gas, and energy as key sectors for cooperation, alongside existing business links in banking, telecommunications, healthcare and hospitality.
She called on businesses to pursue joint production, technology transfer and skills development, stressing that investments must translate into employment and greater participation by local enterprises.
Nandi-Ndaitwah also urged governments, investment agencies and business chambers to identify viable projects, establish joint ventures and remove trade barriers, including cumbersome border procedures and logistical challenges.
She called for small businesses, women and young entrepreneurs to benefit from improved access to finance and markets.
The president said the forum’s success should be measured by tangible results, clear timelines and implemented commitments rather than speeches and meetings.
