Namibia Seeks to Turn Investment Opportunities into Action at EU Business Forum
By Anton Wokie
Namibia is positioning itself to transform investment opportunities into tangible economic outcomes as government and business leaders intensify efforts to attract strategic partnerships and accelerate national development.
This was the central message delivered by Dr. Kaire Mbuende, Director General of the National Planning Commission, during the official opening of the 2nd Namibia-European Union (EU) Business Forum currently underway in Windhoek.
Addressing delegates under the theme “Towards stronger, greener and more diversified economies: Catalyzing business and trade opportunities between the EU and Namibia,” Dr. Mbuende stressed that the summit is not merely a platform for dialogue, but a space aimed at converting opportunities into real projects, investments, and jobs.
“It is against this background that the 2nd Namibia-EU Business Forum is of particular importance, as it brings together the key actors capable of advancing projects and turning opportunities into tangible outcomes,” said Mbuende.
Throughout the address, Mbuende emphasized Namibia’s ambition to move beyond traditional economic sectors and position itself as a competitive investment destination driven by green industrialization, energy transition, infrastructure development, and innovation.
He noted that the country is responding to global economic shifts by leveraging its natural resources and strategic geographic position to attract investment into sectors such as green hydrogen, renewable energy, agribusiness, oil and gas, logistics, mining, tourism, and the creative industries.
“As we gather here today, we are confronted by global economic and political challenges and opportunities,” Mbuende said. “The world is undergoing profound changes, nations are rethinking how they produce, trade and power their economies.”
He added that Namibia is among countries prepared to act “with clarity and purpose” amid growing global demand for clean energy and sustainable resources.
A key message in the speech is Namibia’s commitment to ensuring that economic expansion leads to job creation and increased opportunities for ordinary citizens.
“The central focus is to grow the economy, widen its base and ensure that growth generates jobs and opportunities for all,” Mbuende stated.
The Director General further highlighted the importance of cooperation between government, investors, financial institutions, and the private sector in driving Namibia’s development agenda.
“Delivering on these priorities requires cooperation between policy makers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators and financing partners,” he said.
Mbuende also applauded the inclusion of project pitching sessions at the forum, saying they provide practical opportunities for both government and private sector stakeholders to develop concrete partnerships and investment initiatives.
The address also highlighted the strengthening economic ties between Namibia and the European Union, with the EU continuing to serve as one of Namibia’s major trading and investment partners. Figures presented during the forum revealed that Namibia’s exports to the EU reached about N$21 billion in 2025, while imports from the bloc were estimated at roughly N$16 billion.
Mbuende reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to improving the country’s investment climate through regulatory reforms, improved institutional coordination, and investor-friendly policies aimed at boosting confidence in the local business environment.
The forum, which started on 11 May 2026, is expected to continue until Wednesday, 13 May 2026, with engagements focused on trade, investment, skills development, financial instruments, and industrial cooperation between Namibia and the European Union.
