Niël Terblanché
Namibia has called for strengthened partnerships with trusted developmental allies like Indonesia to fully unlock the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Representing President Nangolo Mbumba at the Second Indonesia-Africa Forum in Bali, Pohamba Shifeta, the Minister of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism, stressed the critical role of Indonesia as a key partner in Africa’s journey towards economic integration and regional industrialisation.
Namibia’s appeal comes at a time when global disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, have been reinforcing the increasing need for resilient partnerships.
Shifeta, on behalf of the president, focused the attention of participants in the forum on the historical ties between Indonesia and Africa, dating back to the Bandung Conference of 1955.
He said that in the past, the forum was vital for uniting newly independent nations against colonialism and the creation of socio-economic collaboration.
“Today, these ties continue to evolve, with Indonesia supporting Africa in areas such as capacity building, economic growth, and industrialisation,” he said in his address.
Shifeta stressed the importance of AfCFTA and described the creation of the body as a significant achievement by the African Union aimed at creating a unified African market.
“Realising the full potential of this free trade area requires support from trusted partners like Indonesia, Shifeta said.
The minister called for enhanced cooperation, particularly in human capital development, entrepreneurship, and innovation, to empower Africa’s youth to drive future growth.
Shifeta informed delegates at the forum that Namibia’s ambitions also extend to establishing itself as a global green hydrogen hub, with recent developments in green hydrogen and the discovery of oil and gas deposits.
The minister invited Indonesian investors to explore opportunities in these sectors, which are set to play a crucial role in supplying clean energy to the global economy.
Shifeta called for continued collaboration, reflecting the enduring spirit of South-South cooperation and the shared vision of sustainable growth and development between Africa and Indonesia.
He said that Namibia’s participation in the forum reinforces its commitment to leveraging such partnerships to overcome these challenges and achieve shared prosperity.
