Namibia and Kenya should unite again: Geingob

WINDHOEK, 21 OCT – President Hage Geingob has called upon the Namibian and Kenyan governments to unite once again in the spirit of pan-Africanism in order to deliver on the promise of economic emancipation for their people.
Speaking at a luncheon held as part of his State visit to Kenya in Nairobi on Friday, Geingob said the two countries’ longstanding bilateral relations are characterised by the spirit of pan-Africanism during the fight against colonialism, which both emerged from victoriously.
In his statement availed to the media, the Head of State also said Namibia and Kenya are now seized with the challenges of the second phase of the struggle.
“Our people are free, but they need food, clothes, shelter and jobs. Our youth want to pursue their dreams in a world of immense opportunities, so the time is opportune for Kenya and Namibia to once again, unite in the spirit of pan-Africanism,” said Geingob.
He noted that despite excellent bilateral cooperation between Namibia and Kenya in various areas, trade activities have been very minimal. There is therefore potential for growth and room for improvement, especially in the area of transport and logistics.
Geingob further noted that Kenya has an excellent transport and logistical network, as well as one of the biggest and most well-managed harbours in Africa, which could serve as a lesson for Namibia in making the Port of Walvis Bay a premier regional destination and gateway into southern Africa.
He added that cooperation in education, agriculture, health, defence and aviation is noteworthy and Namibia remains grateful for Kenya’s assistance, such as during the establishment of a heart unit at the Windhoek Central Hospital.
“To take our cooperation to the next level, let us deepen our trade, educate our people, and elevate our cooperation as per the decisions of the recently concluded Inaugural Session of the Joint Commission of Cooperation,” said Geingob.
The president said together, the two countries can eradicate poverty and hunger, restore peace and give hope to those caught in conflicts.
“Together we can deliver on the promise of economic emancipation. Together we can achieve the Africa we want,” he said.
After his visit to Kenya, Geingob was scheduled to proceed to Geneva, Switzerland to participate in the 2018 United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) World Investment Forum from 22 until 26 October.
(NAMPA)