Namibia and China: Is this the next big partnership?

The longstanding diplomatic and economic relationship between Namibia and China continues to enhance as both nations channel their efforts towards trade, infrastructure development, mining, and educational advancements. During the ongoing Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, senior officials from Namibia have expressed a positive outlook regarding the future of their bilateral relations.

Expanding Economic Collaboration

Elia Kaiyamo, Namibia’s esteemed Ambassador to China, articulated that FOCAC offers a comprehensive platform for deepening economic collaboration. He remarked, “What I anticipate is that the relationship will improve. We envision the implementation to be mutually beneficial, presenting a win-win situation.” His statements highlight the substantial opportunities that Chinese investments hold for advancing local industries. Ambassador Kaiyamo emphasized Namibia’s commitment to fostering local manufacturing sectors that produce items “Made in Namibia,” thereby reducing reliance on imports, with considerable support from China.

Chinese Investments in Mining and Infrastructure

In the mining sector, Chinese investments have played a pivotal role, especially within Namibia’s uranium industry. Tom Alweendo, the Minister of Mines and Energy in Namibia, lauded China’s instrumental contributions during a press conference held in June 2024, noting that these efforts have been fundamental in establishing Namibia as one of the leading uranium-producing nations globally. Alweendo revealed that the mining industry now constitutes 14.4 per cent of Namibia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), a significant proportion of which can be attributed to the activities of the China National Uranium Corporation Limited (CNUC). Notably, in 2019, CNUC acquired the Rossing uranium mine, renowned as one of the largest and longest-operating open-pit uranium mines worldwide. Alweendo expressed aspirations for the mine’s continued successful operation over the next four decades, underscoring its essential role in driving Namibia’s economic expansion.

Furthermore, Chinese enterprises have made remarkable contributions to the improvement of Namibia’s infrastructure. The recent, early completion of the rehabilitation of the B1 highway, a crucial route linking Namibia to South Africa, by the China Henan International Cooperation Group has been transformative. This upgrade has significantly enhanced the efficiency of goods and individuals travelling across the border, thereby bolstering regional trade and connectivity. Aletha Frederick, the governor of the Karas Region, remarked at the commissioning ceremony, “The contribution of Henan International has set a new benchmark for road infrastructure in Namibia.” The project not only provided employment to 800 local workers but also facilitated skills development for 500 individuals, thereby generating considerable socio-economic benefits for the region.

Strengthening Educational and Vocational Ties

Namibia’s leaders are keen to enrich educational opportunities in collaboration with China. Ambassador Kaiyamo has prioritised the initiative to increase the enrolment of Namibian students in Chinese institutions, focusing on areas such as innovation, medicine, and commerce. He stated, “My focus now is to bring in more students to study on innovation, to study on medicine, and to study on trade.” Additionally, during a recent delegation to China, Speaker of Namibia’s National Assembly, Peter Katjavivi, explored avenues for cooperative agricultural research, visiting various agricultural research institutions to foster partnerships. His advocacy for establishing a vocational training centre at the Namibian University of Science and Technology is aimed at adopting the successful vocational education model of China, thus enhancing Namibia’s human capital development.

Tourism and Future Trade Ambitions

Tourism represents another arena with immense potential for growth in bilateral collaboration. Ambassador Kaiyamo expressed aspirations to increase the influx of Chinese tourists to Namibia, showcasing the nation’s remarkable wildlife and natural landscapes. He remarked, “We also need to take more Chinese people to Namibia to enjoy our area, especially our wildlife, lions, etc.” Looking ahead, Namibia seeks to position itself as a key trade hub within the region, bolstered by Chinese investments. Ambassador Kaiyamo outlined strategic plans aimed at attracting Chinese automotive manufacturers to establish operations in Namibia, positioning the country as a central hub for the African automotive industry.

A Promising Future or Overreliance?

As trade, investment, and educational collaborations continue to expand, Namibia and China appear poised to further solidify their relationship. The ongoing FOCAC summit has instilled optimism among Namibia’s leaders regarding a partnership with China that promises substantial advantages across diverse sectors, including infrastructure, mining, and education.