By Benjamin Wickham
Windhoek, November 7 – The Namibia-Mauritius Business Forum served as a remarkable platform for fostering stronger economic ties between the two African nations. The event, hosted in the picturesque setting of Windhoek, marked a historic Government-to-Government and Business-to-Business engagement, bringing together leaders, entrepreneurs, and officials from both countries to explore opportunities and deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation.
Director of proceedings Mr. Kaisi set the stage for the forum, and the event featured notable figures, including Ms. Nghipondoka-Robiatti, who lightheartedly acknowledged the similarity of her name with an Italian flair, emphasizing the Namibian identity she shares with her fellow Namibians.
The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) was prominently represented by Dino Ballotti, who spoke on behalf of Ms. Nangula Uaandja, the CEO and Chairperson of NIPDB. He commended the collaboration between the two nations, noting the intentional approach to unlock opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Namibia’s achievement of the highest greenfield Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) performance index in Africa in 2022 showcased its unique value proposition.
As “brother countries” within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Namibia and Mauritius seek to forge meaningful partnerships and stimulate like-minded trade collaborations. They share a vision for the future, with aligned goals of prosperity and economic development by 2030.
Both countries have advantages, with Namibia discovering commercial volumes of oil and gas off its coastlines and an abundance of natural resources. Diversification of the economy is a key focus, emphasizing sectors like agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, and renewable energy. President Hage Geingob’s open-for-business approach seeks mutually beneficial partnerships that create sustainable local jobs.
Mauritius, often dubbed the “pearl of the Indian Ocean,” boasts unique citizenship and a strategic location at the crossroads of African and Asian markets. The Economic Development Board of Mauritius (EDB) has been instrumental in facilitating trade and investment and is committed to strengthening economic ties with Namibia.
The forum provided a platform for both nations to co-create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. The event symbolized the dedication of Namibia and Mauritius to exploring opportunities and working together for mutual success.
The Namibia-Mauritius Business Forum was a testament to the growing cooperation and friendship between the two countries, with the potential to achieve great things together. The partnerships forged during this event are expected to significantly contribute to the prosperity and success of both nations.
