Justicia Shipena
The Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) has urged companies to support local procurement as a way to grow industries and strengthen the economy.
NCCI chief executive officer Titus Nampala said value lies not only in exports but also in supply chains and participation.
He was speaking at the China–Namibia Investment & Trade Fair at the Windhoek Country Club this week, which brought together government, industry, and business leaders for exhibitions, networking, and matchmaking sessions aimed at building partnerships across key sectors.
“Value is not found in exports alone; it is found in supply chains, in procurement, and in participation,” Nampala said.
He added that no country has built a sustainable economy on resource extraction alone, pointing to industrialisation, innovation, and trade as the real drivers of growth.
He called for partnerships that stimulate industries such as textiles, manufacturing, and green technology.
Nampala said Namibia can benefit from China’s technological and industrial expertise while China gains access to Namibia’s resources and markets.
He stressed the need for intentional partnerships to create sustainable opportunities for both sides.
Speaking on behalf of the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) chief executive Nangula Uaandja, Julia Muetudhana said the fair marked a pivotal moment to deepen ties between China and Namibia.
“Namibia offers diverse investment opportunities across many sectors, including mining, energy, agriculture, infrastructure, manufacturing, and services. At the NIPDB, our mandate is to simplify the investment journey and attract high-quality investments that yield returns and create jobs,” she said.
The executive president of the Alliance of Chinese Business in Africa for Social Responsibilities, Diao Chunhe, said the Chinese trade delegation’s visit aligned with the 2024 Forum on China–Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit and its 2025–2027 Action Plan.
He pointed to Namibia’s potential in mining, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure.
“From the Husab Uranium Mine to the expansion of Walvis Bay Port, from photovoltaic power stations to agricultural technology demonstration centres, these projects demonstrate the complementary and win-win nature of China–Namibia cooperation,” he said.
Diao said Chinese companies were committed to models that link industrial cooperation with social responsibility.
He said job creation, technology transfer, environmental protection and community development must be part of the agenda.
Association of Chinese Enterprises in Namibia president Luo Wei said the fair was designed to match supply with demand and foster practical cooperation.
“The essence of China–Namibia cooperation has always been mutual benefit and win–win results. Chinese enterprises in Namibia believe true and sustainable growth can only be achieved by taking root locally and walking shoulder to shoulder with Namibian partners,” he said.
