The Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Dr. Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, received a courtesy visit from a high-level European Union Delegation. The delegation was headed by the Chairperson of the Committee, Mr. Barry Andrews, and comprised eight (8) senior Members of the Committee, as well as the Chairperson of the European Parliament’s Delegation to the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly, Mrs. Hilde Vautmans.
The objective of the visit is to obtain firsthand information about the Namibia-EU partnership and related cooperation initiatives. As part of the program, the delegation will also undertake field visits to projects, including those implemented under the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, and hold engagements with Namibian decision-makers and stakeholders to assess the impact of the partnership on sustainable development.
During discussions, both parties emphasized the importance of strengthening cordial relations and enhancing cooperation across multiple areas. Hon. Dr. Kuugongelwa-Amadhila underscored the value of technical and professional support to parliamentary committees to ensure effective oversight and efficient public service delivery.
The deliberations further highlighted that constructive cooperation carries positive geopolitical implications, helping both Namibia and the EU to resolve challenges amicably in an increasingly interconnected world.
Key areas of focus included:
· Promoting energy security and resilience.
· Diversifying the economy and supporting the development of local enterprises.
· Enhancing technology transfer and collaboration in international offtake markets.
· Strengthening cooperation with civil society organizations.
· Exploring new areas of cooperation for mutual growth.
· Combating climate change through legislative capacity-building and joint initiatives.
· Advancing cybersecurity frameworks.
· Addressing gender equality and youth unemployment.
· Expanding private sector partnerships.
· Promoting locally led approaches to addressing social and economic challenges.
The Speaker expressed appreciation to the EU Delegation for their continued commitment to Namibia, noting that these areas of collaboration are critical for sustainable development, inclusive growth, and democratic consolidation.
