'Strategic opportunity' for Namibia as China top diplomat visits
The visit of Chinese foreign affairs minister Wang Yi offers a pivotal opportunity for Namibia to strengthen its strategic positioning, particularly concerning the country’s natural resources and economic interests, analysts said.
Wang Yi’s visit is seen as highly calculated, beginning with a meeting with President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, followed by discussions with outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba. Marius Kudumo, a Namibian public policy analyst, believes that the sequence of the visit reflects China's intent to reaffirm its interests under Namibia's new administration.
“China is clear about its priorities,” Kudumo said. “They are seeking assurance that their interests and relationships with Namibia remain intact. For Namibia, the question is whether we’ve developed a solid strategy to leverage this golden opportunity.”
Namibia, the world’s second-largest uranium producer, is a key player in global energy markets. Its Husab Uranium Mine, 90% owned by China’s Guangdong Nuclear Power Group, is China’s biggest investment in Africa. Additionally, Namibia’s growing lithium reserves position it as a vital partner in the electric vehicle supply chain, given China’s soaring demand for the mineral.
Kudumo emphasised that Namibia must capitalize on its resource wealth during negotiations. “With the amount of raw materials China sources from Namibia, we should have a strong bargaining position. But this depends on whether Namibia has a well-defined strategy and the right negotiators at the table, particularly from the trade, industry, mines, and energy ministries.”
Broader African tour
After Namibia, Wang Yi will visit the Republic of Congo, Chad, and Nigeria, highlighting China’s broader interest in Africa’s critical minerals and energy resources. The Republic of Congo, for example, produces over 70% of global cobalt output, while Chad and Nigeria are key oil producers.
During his visit, Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s commitment to Africa, describing the relationship as an "all-weather community with a shared future." He underscored the importance of deepening cooperation across various sectors and emphasised China’s role as Africa’s “most trusted friend” and “strongest backing” on the international stage.
A golden opportunity
As demand for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel surges globally, Namibia’s access to deepwater ports, such as Walvis Bay, positions it as a crucial export hub for Chinese and Asian markets.
Kudumo warned, however, that Namibia’s ability to capitalise on this opportunity hinges on a clear, strategic plan. “China is visiting other countries as well. If Namibia fails to articulate its value proposition, it risks losing out to competitors,” he said.
Government commitment
The visit underscores the growing importance of Namibia’s role in global resource supply chains. Observers say strategic engagement and preparation could enable Namibia to not only secure favorable agreements but also establish itself as a leader in the international critical minerals market.
Wang Yi’s visit is seen as highly calculated, beginning with a meeting with President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, followed by discussions with outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba. Marius Kudumo, a Namibian public policy analyst, believes that the sequence of the visit reflects China's intent to reaffirm its interests under Namibia's new administration.
“China is clear about its priorities,” Kudumo said. “They are seeking assurance that their interests and relationships with Namibia remain intact. For Namibia, the question is whether we’ve developed a solid strategy to leverage this golden opportunity.”
Namibia, the world’s second-largest uranium producer, is a key player in global energy markets. Its Husab Uranium Mine, 90% owned by China’s Guangdong Nuclear Power Group, is China’s biggest investment in Africa. Additionally, Namibia’s growing lithium reserves position it as a vital partner in the electric vehicle supply chain, given China’s soaring demand for the mineral.
Kudumo emphasised that Namibia must capitalize on its resource wealth during negotiations. “With the amount of raw materials China sources from Namibia, we should have a strong bargaining position. But this depends on whether Namibia has a well-defined strategy and the right negotiators at the table, particularly from the trade, industry, mines, and energy ministries.”
Broader African tour
After Namibia, Wang Yi will visit the Republic of Congo, Chad, and Nigeria, highlighting China’s broader interest in Africa’s critical minerals and energy resources. The Republic of Congo, for example, produces over 70% of global cobalt output, while Chad and Nigeria are key oil producers.
During his visit, Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s commitment to Africa, describing the relationship as an "all-weather community with a shared future." He underscored the importance of deepening cooperation across various sectors and emphasised China’s role as Africa’s “most trusted friend” and “strongest backing” on the international stage.
A golden opportunity
As demand for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel surges globally, Namibia’s access to deepwater ports, such as Walvis Bay, positions it as a crucial export hub for Chinese and Asian markets.
Kudumo warned, however, that Namibia’s ability to capitalise on this opportunity hinges on a clear, strategic plan. “China is visiting other countries as well. If Namibia fails to articulate its value proposition, it risks losing out to competitors,” he said.
Government commitment
The visit underscores the growing importance of Namibia’s role in global resource supply chains. Observers say strategic engagement and preparation could enable Namibia to not only secure favorable agreements but also establish itself as a leader in the international critical minerals market.
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