Renthia Kaimbi
Namibia has signed a cooperation agreement with South Korea to develop a green port strategy aimed at improving sustainability in the country’s maritime sector.
The letter of intent on the development of a green port policy, strategy, investment plan and implementation roadmap was signed in Windhoek two weeks ago.
The agreement was signed between the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) and Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries.
The partnership places Namibia under the International Port Development Cooperation Programme, an initiative supported by the African Development Bank and the Korean government.
Officials said the selection reflects international confidence in Namibia’s policy direction and its approach to linking economic growth with environmental management.
The assistant director of the port investment cooperation division at Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Lim Chunghwan, said the agreement strengthens cooperation between the two countries.
He said the partnership also supports efforts to address global climate challenges.
Chunghwan noted that ports play an important role in national economies but also contribute to environmental pressures, including greenhouse gas emissions.
He said Korea’s experience in developing smart and low-carbon ports will support Namibia’s plans to introduce greener port systems.
Namport chief executive officer Andrew Kanime said the agreement marks an important step in Namibia’s plans to improve sustainability in the port sector.
He said Namport began focusing on sustainability nearly four years ago.
Kanime said the authority started its transition toward a green port system in March 2022 when the Namport board resolved to move the ports of Walvis Bay and Lüderitz toward green port development.
He said the partnership will support Namibia’s plans to modernise its ports while improving environmental management.
The cooperation will focus on developing three key frameworks: a green port policy, a ten-year green port investment plan and a green port implementation roadmap.
These frameworks will guide infrastructure planning, regulatory alignment, emissions reduction and the use of renewable energy in Namibia’s port system.
Director of maritime affairs Christian Fikunawa said modern ports must expand their role beyond traditional cargo operations.
He said ports now serve as platforms for industrial development, energy transition and climate resilience.
Technical engagements following the signing will define priorities, governance structures and financing arrangements to support the programme.
The project also aims to strengthen Namibia’s position in regional logistics while supporting global climate goals.
The initiative is aligned with Namibia’s national development priorities and international commitments, including the United Nations sustainable development goals on clean energy, infrastructure and climate action.
Both governments said they plan to expand cooperation beyond ports into sectors such as shipping, logistics and technology development.
“Through mutual trust, technical cooperation and sustained partnership, Namibia and Korea will work together to deliver a cleaner, more resilient and globally competitive port system that benefits present and future generations,” the parties said in a joint statement.
