Namibia Showcases Trade Potential at Invest in Africa Summit

Namibia Showcases Trade Potential at Invest in Africa SSummit. The Ministry of International Relations and Trade (MIRT), together with its agencies the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) and the Namibia Trade Forum (NTF), is participating in the 3rd Invest in Africa 2026 Trade Expo & Business Summit. The event, hosted by the Africa Economic Leadership Council, is taking place in Swakopmund from 28–30 May 2026 at the Municipal Tennis Court next to Strand Hotel.

The Expo and Summit aim to advance continental economic integration by translating the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework into practical, market-driven realities. Organisers highlighted that the gathering provides a platform for strategic dialogue on how Africa can leverage trade opportunities to achieve inclusive and sustainable development.

Delivering the keynote speech on behalf of Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, the Minister of International Relations and Trade, Honourable Ambassador Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, emphasized the importance of intra-African trade. She noted that African economies have historically relied heavily on external markets, resulting in low levels of trade within the continent.

“The time for talking about Africa’s prospects and possibilities is over,” she said. “Africa is now implementing one of the largest economic integration projects in modern history—the AfCFTA. It is critical that we imbibe the AfCFTA not merely as a trade agreement, but Africa’s blueprint for unity, industrialization, economic transformation and shared prosperity.”Ambassador Ashipala-Musavyi also toured exhibition stalls inside and outside the hall, engaging directly with exhibitors to learn more about their products and services.

The summit has drawn participation from policymakers, business leaders, and trade experts, reinforcing its role as a key platform for shaping Africa’s economic future. Namibia’s active involvement highlights its commitment to regional collaboration and to advancing the goals of the AfCFTA.