Source: Namibian Sun

South African president Cyril Ramaphosa says Namibia’s recent oil and gas discoveries have the potential to transform southern Africa and contribute to economic prosperity in the region.

He was speaking at the third Bi-National Commission, which drew to a close in Windhoek on Friday.

“We welcome your invitation to participate in the energy sector, including the oil, gas and green hydrogen. We are confident that Namibia’s recent hydrocarbon discoveries will contribute to job creation, industrialisation as well as energy security – not only for Namibia, but for our region,” he said.

Ramaphosa has called for deepened bilateral and economic ties between Namibia and South Africa, which will unlock opportunities for the citizens of both countries.

“Deepening investment and trade between Namibia and South Africa is a priority. We need to expedite the establishment of the proposed South Africa-Namibia Business Council, because there are substantial investment opportunities for both countries.”

Integration

On his part, President Hage Geingob stressed the need for deeper integration between Southern African Development Community [SADC] countries.

“Deeper integration of the economies of SADC countries will benefit all of us in several ways and will assist our respective domestic markets. Thus, our bilateral objectives should be in support of regional development,” he said.

“In this respect, instruments such as the African Continental Free Trade Area [AfCFTA] must be fully utilised to buttress trade and investment collaboration between Namibia and South Africa, as well as our regional and continental partners.”

It is also imperative for African states to remain resolute regarding efforts to integrate, Geingob stressed.

“We must redouble our efforts at ensuring continental integration and remain committed to the implementation of the developmental aspirations of the African Union Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Agenda 2030.”

Cobus Theyse
Author: Cobus Theyse

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