Namibia and Kenya are positioning themselves to seize regional and continental economic opportunities to bolster economic growth, trade, and regional integration. These efforts were underscored during the Namibia–Kenya political and diplomatic consultations held earlier this week in Windhoek, Namibia. The consultations culminated in a joint communiqué highlighting the nations’ commitment to deepening their bilateral relations with a primary focus on enhancing economic cooperation and fostering increased political engagement.

The diplomatic talks were chaired by Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Peya Mushelenga, and Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi. The discussions came at a pivotal moment as both countries seek to navigate the current economic landscape, driven by the necessity to harness emerging opportunities in their respective regions and the African continent at large.

Leveraging Regional and Continental Agreements

One of the key outcomes of the discussions was the mutual interest in maximizing the benefits of the Tripartite Free Trade Agreement (TFTA) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These agreements, of which both Namibia and Kenya are signatories, are crucial platforms for accelerating the region’s economic integration by reducing trade barriers, enhancing market access, and promoting intra-African trade. AfCFTA, launched in January 2021, is particularly ambitious as it aims to create the largest free trade area in the world, connecting 1.3 billion people across 55 countries.

The AfCFTA provides a framework that allows African countries to diversify their economies, scale up production, and establish global value chains. By leveraging these frameworks, Namibia and Kenya can expand their trade partnerships beyond their current reach, attract foreign direct investment, and strengthen their competitive edge in the global marketplace. Both countries stressed the importance of mobilizing public and private sector stakeholders to take full advantage of these pro-business policies and the continental market that AfCFTA offers.

Key Sectors for Collaboration: Agriculture, Livestock, and the Blue Economy

The discussions between Namibia and Kenya identified key sectors where both nations can collaborate to enhance trade and economic growth. Agriculture and livestock, both vital pillars of the economies of Namibia and Kenya, emerged as primary areas of focus. Namibia’s agricultural sector, primarily centered around cattle ranching, and Kenya’s vibrant horticulture and tea production offer opportunities for synergy. By collaborating in these sectors, both countries can increase agricultural productivity, enhance food security, and tap into the growing demand for agricultural exports in regional and global markets.

Additionally, the blue economy was identified as a critical sector for future cooperation. The blue economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. Namibia’s vast coastline and Kenya’s strategic position along the Indian Ocean offer immense potential for development in fisheries, marine transport, and tourism. The two nations expressed a shared commitment to enhancing investment in maritime resources, which could yield significant economic benefits in the long term.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations and Diplomatic Presence

Namibia and Kenya have enjoyed a strong partnership since establishing formal diplomatic ties in 1964. Over the years, both countries have collaborated on various fronts, from trade to political cooperation. To further strengthen these ties, Namibia announced its intent to open a diplomatic mission in Nairobi in the near future. This move is expected to facilitate smoother trade exchanges, provide support for Namibian nationals living in Kenya, and deepen cooperation in sectors such as health, education, and aviation.

Opening a diplomatic mission in Nairobi would also align with Namibia’s broader strategy of expanding its diplomatic presence across Africa. Nairobi is a key hub for trade and diplomacy in East Africa, housing numerous international organizations, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON). Establishing a presence in this strategic city would position Namibia to better engage with multilateral bodies and advance its regional interests.

Addressing Global and Regional Issues

Beyond trade and economic cooperation, the Namibia–Kenya consultations also touched on several pressing global issues. Both countries called for the full implementation of United Nations resolutions concerning Western Sahara and the Palestinian question, reaffirming their commitment to upholding international law and advocating for the rights of self-determination for these territories. This stance aligns with the broader African Union (AU) policy, which has historically supported Western Sahara’s claim for independence and called for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on international law.

Moreover, the two nations reiterated their call for United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reform. They advocated for a more democratic and representative Security Council that reflects the geopolitical realities of the 21st century and aligns with Africa’s common position as outlined in the Ezulwini Consensus. The Ezulwini Consensus, adopted by the African Union in 2005, calls for two permanent seats with veto power and five non-permanent seats for Africa on the reformed Security Council. The push for UNSC reform remains a priority for many African nations as they seek greater representation in global governance.

Preparing for Key International Events

Both Namibia and Kenya are preparing to host significant international events in the coming months. Namibia will co-facilitate the Summit of the Future alongside Germany at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The summit, focusing on the “Pact for the Future,” will serve as a platform for expediting global efforts toward sustainable development and addressing critical challenges such as climate change, inequality, and poverty.

On the other hand, Kenya is presenting Raila Odinga, the country’s former Prime Minister, as a contender for the 2025 African Union Commission Chairperson election. Namibia has expressed its support for Odinga’s candidacy, recognizing his long-standing contributions to African unity, peace, and development. The African Union Commission plays a central role in shaping the continent’s political and economic agenda, and Odinga’s leadership could further enhance the organization’s efforts toward regional integration and sustainable development.

Climate Change and Environmental Cooperation

A major outcome of the Namibia–Kenya consultations was the commitment to collaborate on climate change adaptation and resilience. Both nations are increasingly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, particularly the severe drought conditions that have become more frequent across Africa. Namibia, which has one of the driest climates in sub-Saharan Africa, and Kenya, which has experienced devastating droughts in recent years, agreed to work together to develop innovative solutions for climate resilience.

This collaboration could include joint efforts in water management, renewable energy, and agricultural practices that promote sustainability. Both countries also emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing climate change and called for greater international support to help African nations adapt to climate impacts.

Moving Forward: Building Bonds of Solidarity and Prosperity

In conclusion, the Namibia–Kenya political and diplomatic consultations have reaffirmed the strong partnership between the two nations. By focusing on trade, economic cooperation, and global governance, Namibia and Kenya are positioning themselves as key players in Africa’s quest for economic growth and regional integration. The emphasis on sectors such as agriculture, livestock, and the blue economy highlights the strategic areas where both countries can collaborate to achieve mutual benefits.

As the continent faces challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainty, and political instability, Namibia and Kenya’s commitment to working together signals a positive step toward building a future of shared prosperity. Through regular diplomatic consultations, robust partnerships, and active participation in regional and global forums, both countries are poised to continue playing a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s economic and political landscape.

Their collaborative efforts in trade, climate change adaptation, and regional integration are expected to yield significant dividends for both nations, reinforcing their positions as leaders in the African continent’s push toward sustainable development and global relevance.

Photo source: Google

By: Montel Kamau

Serrari Financial Analyst

12th September, 2024