Namibia is seeking Chinese collaboration to add value to its uranium resources for nuclear energy and establish visa-free travel for tourists.
This was highlighted during a courtesy call paid by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, accompanied by officials, to Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba at Swakopmund on 6 January 2024.
According to Mbumba, Chinese investment, particularly from Rössing Uranium and Swakopmund Uranium, continues to play a significant role in the development of Namibia’s uranium sector, positioning the country as one of the largest global producers of uranium.
“We want to add value to our uranium for the peaceful development of nuclear energy and other energy sources,” he said.
This comes as China is set to be building 150 new nuclear reactors between 2020 and 2035. China is the world’s largest generator of electricity and is building half of the world’s new nuclear power. China’s nuclear fleet is concentrated in the eastern part of the country, along the Pacific Ocean coast.
Mbumba further explained that Namibia is determined to tap into the rapidly growing and lucrative Chinese tourism market.
Officials are reportedly working to establish the necessary groundwork to facilitate visa-free travel for tourism purposes between the two countries, with expectations of progress in this area soon.
Additionally, the President expressed readiness to resume cooperation on upgrading and constructing an international airport to support tourism.
“Namibia is determined to tap into the Chinese tourism market, which is one of the globally fast-growing and lucrative tourism markets. In this regard, our officials are working hard to ensure that the groundwork is laid for citizens to travel freely for tourism purposes between our two countries. I am sure that soon we will see some new developments in this area,” he said.
Currently, Namibian and Chinese nationals require visas to travel to each respective country.
