Niël Terblanché
Namibia and Ghana have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations and strengthening cooperation across various sectors following talks between Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba and Ghanaian President John Mahama.
The discussions between the two heads of state took place on the sidelines of President Mahama’s inauguration in Accra, where he was sworn in as Ghana’s leader for another term.
During the meeting, President Mbumba congratulated President Mahama on his election victory, describing it as a milestone for democracy in Ghana.
He also commended the historic election of Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Ghana’s first female Vice President, and lauded Ghana’s long-standing contributions to African independence movements, including Namibia’s liberation struggle.
In their talks, the two leaders focused on strengthening trade and investment between the two nations, particularly in agriculture and the beef sector.
“I am pleased with the progress made in commercial agriculture and the beef trade between our countries,” Mbumba said while adding that there was still room for growth in economic collaboration.
President Mbumba also reiterated Namibia’s recent discoveries of oil and gas, noting that the nation would greatly benefit from Ghana’s experience in the energy and mining sectors.
He expressed confidence that Ghana’s expertise would be invaluable as Namibia looks to establish itself as a player in these industries.
President Mahama echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of African countries asserting greater ownership and control over their natural resources.
“Africa must speak with one voice in international relations,” he said, calling for unity in addressing regional and global challenges.
Beyond bilateral cooperation, the leaders also expressed solidarity with the people of Cuba and Gaza, stressing the need for collective support for these communities in their respective struggles.
President Mahama stressed the potential for greater collaboration in agriculture, a sector critical to both nations’ economies.
President Mbumba extended a special invitation to President Mahama to attend the inauguration of Namibia’s first female President, Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, on 21 March 2025.
The inauguration of Nandi-Ndaitwah will open a new chapter in Namibia’s history where the nation will celebrate the strides it took in gender equality and political leadership.
Mbumba returned to Namibia on Thursday bringing with him renewed optimism for enhanced cooperation between the two countries.
