Namibia Launches Regional Business Engagements to Boost AfCFTA Participation

Namibia Launches Regional Business Engagements to Boost AfCFTA Participation. The Ministry of International Relations and Trade (MIRT), in partnership with the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy (MIME), has announced a series of regional business engagements aimed at strengthening Namibia’s integration into the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Scheduled from Wednesday, 3 September to Monday, 8 September 2025, the initial sessions will take place in the ǁKaras, Hardap, and Omaheke regions, followed by engagements across the remaining regions of the country. These initiatives provide a critical platform for dialogue between government officials and the private sector, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The engagements are designed to identify export-ready businesses, align policy measures with market requirements, and ensure Namibian companies are prepared to take full advantage of AfCFTA opportunities. Through direct consultations, the ministries aim to address challenges faced by local enterprises, gather insights, and promote sustainable trade practices that enhance Namibia’s competitiveness on the continental stage.

“This process reflects our commitment to fostering strong public-private collaboration and ensuring that Namibian businesses are well-positioned to benefit from continental trade,” said MIRT officials. The engagements complement the recent milestone where Namibia conducted its first export under the AfCFTA framework, signaling the country’s readiness to deepen economic integration with Africa’s single market.

For Namibian entrepreneurs and business leaders, these sessions offer a unique opportunity to gain firsthand guidance on regulatory requirements, explore new markets, and connect with key stakeholders in government and industry. By participating, local businesses can better align their strategies with continental trade trends, strengthening their potential for growth and long-term sustainability.

The regional engagement program is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting Namibia’s broader economic diversification goals while enhancing the country’s position within Africa’s growing trade ecosystem.