The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Namibian Ports Authority to strengthen cooperation in port development, maritime services and training, as part of Egypt’s broader efforts to expand its presence across the African continent.
Under the agreement, the two authorities will exchange expertise and collaborate in areas including maritime construction works, the sale and chartering of marine units, and advanced maritime training through the SCA’s maritime training and simulation academies.
“This cooperation reflects the depth of Egyptian–Namibian relations and will help promote stronger ties between the two countries,” Namport Chairperson Nangula Hamunyela said.
She added that the SCA’s advanced technology and extensive experience in maritime construction and training could help accelerate the development of Namibia’s ports while reducing reliance on expertise from outside the continent. Hamunyela said the memorandum presents an important opportunity to support Namibia’s port development plans through skills transfer, technology sharing and specialised training.
SCA Chairman and Managing Director Ossama Rabiee said the authority was ready to begin practical cooperation with Namport, noting that the agreement aligns with the SCA’s strategy to enter new markets and deepen engagement with African countries.
He pointed to the SCA’s recent role in developing and reopening Libya’s Port of Sirte after a 14-year closure as a potential model for future cooperation elsewhere on the continent.
Rabiee said full institutional support would be provided to ensure the swift implementation of joint projects, highlighting the SCA’s integrated maritime and logistics services delivered through its affiliated shipyards and companies.
“We are ready to commence cooperation and seek to enter new markets while strengthening our engagement with the African continent,” he said.
The visit also included inspections of maritime units produced by SCA-affiliated shipyards, as well as tours of the Floating Pontoons and Concrete Buoys Factory and the Authority’s Maritime Training and Simulation Academy.
