- Eight agreements signed covering energy, green minerals and broader economic partnership.
- Focus on uranium, lithium and rare earths linked to global energy transition.
- Namibia seeks investment to drive jobs, industrial growth and diversification.
China and Namibia have signed a series of cooperation agreements to expand collaboration across energy, critical minerals, infrastructure and agriculture, strengthening economic ties as Namibia works to attract foreign investment.
The agreements were concluded in Beijing during talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Namibian President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah, who is on a seven day state visit aimed at supporting job creation and economic transformation.
President Nandi Ndaitwah reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to its long standing relationship with China, highlighting the role of stronger bilateral cooperation in supporting economic growth. She noted that her delegation included a large group of business leaders.
President Xi welcomed Namibia’s decision to make China its first state visit outside Africa since the new administration took office, describing it as a sign of the importance of the relationship.
According to state news agency Xinhua, the two countries signed eight agreements, including cooperation on green minerals and a framework covering broader economic partnership. China indicated it is ready to expand collaboration with Namibia across infrastructure, energy, mining, agriculture, education, science and technology.
A joint statement confirmed plans to strengthen cooperation in strategic minerals including uranium, lithium and rare earth elements, reflecting their increasing importance in the global energy transition and manufacturing sectors.
Both countries also highlighted the need to promote local mineral processing, technology transfer and skills development, in line with a wider shift among African resource producers to capture more value from natural resources.
The visit comes as Namibia implements policies to reduce reliance on a narrow economic base while creating employment opportunities. Since taking office in 2025, President Nandi Ndaitwah has prioritised attracting investment and accelerating industrial growth.
Namibia’s strategic position is also rising following major offshore oil discoveries by Shell and TotalEnergies. Industry estimates suggest the country could become Africa’s fourth largest oil producer by 2030 as projects move toward production.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
