Under the patronage of the Egyptian Embassy in Namibia and the Namibian Embassy in Egypt, and within the framework of ongoing cooperation to strengthen economic and trade relations between Egypt and Namibia, the Egyptian African Businessmen’s Association (EABA) organized a virtual conference titled “Egypt-Namibia Business Day 2024.” The event aims to enhance investment and cultural exchange between the two countries while highlighting potential economic collaboration opportunities.
Egypt and Namibia share growing trade relations focused on increasing trade volume and mutual investments. Currently, the trade exchange between the two nations stands at approximately $5 million annually, with Egypt primarily exporting agricultural products, chemicals, and plastics, while importing Namibian agricultural products such as meat and fish. Both countries aspire to expand this figure through trade agreements and joint developmental programs to boost economic integration between Egypt and southern African nations.
The event was attended by a distinguished group of notable figures, including Dr. Yousrey El-Sharkawi, EABA Chairman; H.E. Wael Lotfy, ambassador of Egypt to Namibia; H.E. Vilho Hifindaka
, Rtd Major-General/Ambassador ; Minister Plenipotentiary Fadel Yacoub, Director of the African Affairs Department at the Egyptian Commercial Authority; and Dr. Abdel Rabbo Shehata, Advisor on Irrigation, Renewable Energy, and Food Systems at the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reclamation. Notable Namibian representatives included Mr. Ritchell Lukonga, CEO of the Namibia Industrial Development Agency; Mr. Francois Van Schalkwyk, Executive Director of the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board; and Ms. Nangula Uuandja, CEO of the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board. The conference also witnessed participation from representatives of major companies and economic leaders, facilitating fruitful discussions on investment opportunities and trade exchanges between Egypt and Namibia while opening new avenues for economic cooperation.
Dr. Yousrey El-Sharkawi stated that the “Egypt-Namibia Business Day 2024” reflects the association’s commitment to fostering economic and trade relations between Egypt and African nations in line with Egypt’s political vision. He emphasized that this event serves as a crucial platform for exploring investment opportunities and strengthening partnerships between the two countries, promoting mutual interests and sustainable development across Africa.
“Our presence in African markets, especially in southern Africa, is not just an economic opportunity but also a shared responsibility to advance African integration,” El-Sharkawi remarked. He added that the association aims to create a conducive environment for Egyptian companies to expand their operations in Namibia, particularly in strategic sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and manufacturing industries. He concluded by expressing hope that the conference would mark the beginning of a new phase of fruitful cooperation, paving the way for genuine opportunities that drive development across the continent.
H.E. Wael Lotfy, the Egyptian Ambassador to Namibia, highlighted that the “Egypt-Namibia Business Day 2024” underscores the depth of historical and distinguished relations between the two nations. He reiterated Egypt’s dedication to supporting its African partners through knowledge exchange and joint projects. Namibia, he noted, offers promising investment opportunities across various sectors, making it a vital strategic partner.
Similarly, H.E. Vilho Hifindaka, the Namibian Ambassador to Egypt, praised the Egyptian-African Businessmen Association for organizing the event, describing it as a pivotal step in strengthening economic and cultural ties. He encouraged Egyptian companies to explore collaboration opportunities with Namibian counterparts, particularly in agriculture, renewable energy, and mining.
The conference included presentations from experts and officials from both countries, showcasing the Namibian market’s potential and highlighting successful examples of economic partnerships. Participants agreed on the need for actionable mechanisms to enhance bilateral trade and investment, emphasizing the private sector’s critical role in fostering African economic integration.
“Egypt-Namibia Business Day 2024” represents a positive step toward deepening bilateral relations, paving the way for future economic initiatives that promote mutual investment and trade, driving sustainable development across Africa.