Given the shared geology and geographical proximity between South Africa and Namibia, there is a compelling case for closer collaboration in exploration, infrastructure development, skills development and investment promotion.
This was noted by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the fourth session of the South Africa-Namibia Binational Commission (BNC) on July 17, co-chaired by Ramaphosa and Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.
As the world increasingly looked to Africa for the critical minerals, energy resources, agricultural potential and strategic partnerships that would shape the industries of the future, Ramaphosa argued that Africa had become central to the future of the global economy.
“South Africa and Namibia have both the opportunity and the responsibility to ensure that our natural endowments become engines of industrialisation, innovation, skills development and decent work,” he said.
Hence, he emphasised the importance of building regional value chains and of processing, refining, manufacturing and innovating in Southern Africa, creating value for local economies.
