Namibia and Angola sign seven agreements to boost bilateral cooperation

Namibia and Angola have signed seven new bilateral agreements during the inaugural session of the Angola-Namibia Bi-National Commission in Luanda. These agreements aim to strengthen cooperation in sectors including fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, sports, arts, and culture, as well as the establishment of a One-Stop Border Post at Oshikango and Santa Clara.

Energy and infrastructure are central to the renewed partnership. Namibia’s President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed interest in leveraging Angola’s extensive experience in oil exploration and production to develop Namibia’s hydrocarbon potential. Discussions also focused on accelerating stalled cross-border projects, such as the Baynes Hydropower Station, railway expansions, electricity interconnection, and water supply infrastructure.

Economic diversification remains a priority for both nations. Angola reported that its non-oil sector now accounts for approximately 85% of its GDP, following significant growth in the second quarter of 2026. President Joao Lourenço emphasized the importance of local value addition in the oil industry, encouraging African nations to process natural resources locally rather than relying solely on crude exports.