The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved a allocation of N$30.3 billion (US$1.78 billion) for Namibia under its newly adopted Country Strategy Paper for 2025–2030, aimed at strengthening infrastructure, human capital and economic diversification.
Moono Mupotola, the Bank Group’s Deputy Director General for Southern Africa and Country Manager for Namibia, said the five-year programme is designed to tackle inequality and long-standing structural barriers.
“This strategy marks a pivotal moment for Namibia’s development. By focusing on strategic infrastructure and human capital development, we are laying the foundation for inclusive growth that will benefit all Namibians, particularly the young,” she said.
According to the AfDB, youth unemployment remains above 40%, while per-capita income has declined from N$101,100 (US$5,942) in 2012 to N$72,100 (US$4,240) in 2024.
The bank said the financing will support transport, energy and water infrastructure to lower business costs, stimulate investment and position Namibia as a regional logistics hub.
Mupotola said planned investments will support AfCFTA-linked trade efficiencies, strengthen energy security through renewable projects and expand clean water and sanitation in underserved areas.
The AfDB noted that the interventions are expected to lift electricity access from 59.5% toward universal coverage and improve cross-border connectivity with Angola and Zambia.
The strategy also focuses on market-aligned technical and vocational training, MSME support and women’s economic empowerment, with the AfDB stating that these measures are intended to strengthen employment pathways and widen participation in the economy.
“Recent U.S. tariff impositions and official development assistance cuts have created additional pressures on Namibia’s economy. Our strategy strengthens resilience by diversifying export markets, enhancing regional integration and building domestic productive capacities,” Mupotola said.
The AfDB added that the programme is expected to support economic diversification beyond mining and agriculture, increase manufacturing capacity, deepen MSME participation in value chains and create thousands of jobs.
The latest allocation builds on N$11.2 billion (US$658.1 million) in AfDB financing over the past decade, which supported projects including the Walvis Bay Port expansion, national railway upgrades and improvements to 27 education institutions across all 14 regions.
