Nairobi, Kenya – Hon. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of Namibia, is currently attending the 43rd Session of the African Union Executive Council, hosted by the Government of Kenya.
Focused on the theme of “Acceleration of the Implementation of the African Continental Free-Trade Area (AfCFTA),” the 43rd Council Session provides an opportunity to assess progress toward realizing the AfCFTA’s benefits for the African people.
For Namibia, the AfCFTA serves as a crucial pathway towards achieving its industrialization goals. The Council will also address financial and administrative matters, with Namibia stressing the importance of accountability, frugality, and value for money.
Taking place at the United Nations Office in Nairobi, the 43rd AU Executive Council will additionally discuss AU Partnerships frameworks and examine the challenges and prospects of African Integration within the context of Climate Change, Environment, and the Blue Economy.
The concept of the Blue Economy entails sustainable use of ocean resources to stimulate economic growth, enhance livelihoods, and promote job creation while preserving marine ecosystems. Namibia is committed to collaborating with fellow member states to strengthen continental frameworks, particularly in the context of the AfCFTA, to ensure that its citizens fully benefit from marine activities.
Accompanying the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister are H.E. Ms. Emilia Mkusa, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Namibia to the African Union; Mr. AvShalom Nghifitikeko, Director of Multilateral Relations at the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation; Ms. Albertina Taina Nankela, Director of Budget Management and Control at the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises, and Namibia’s F15 Expert to the AU, along with other government officials.
The 43rd AU Executive Council is set to concluded on July 14, 2023, followed by the 5th AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting on July 16, 2023.
