Angola and Namibia have signed eight legal instruments to deepen bilateral cooperation, covering the economic, social, cultural, border and tourism sectors. The two countries also agreed to strengthen the political oversight of their relations during a state visit to Angola by Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, held between 18 and 20 October.

The signing took place within the framework of the first session of the Angola-Namibia Binational Commission, established in 2019 to ensure coordination between the two countries. The commission is co-chaired by the presidents of Angola and Namibia and is mandated to monitor the implementation of commitments made and to promote initiatives in areas of common interest.

The eight instruments include agreements and memoranda in the areas of diplomacy, culture, sport, fisheries, aquaculture and tourism. The documents also encompass measures to facilitate the movement of people at the border and initiatives aimed at preserving the historical memory of both countries.

On border management, the two countries decided to establish a single-stop post at the Santa Clara and Oshikango border crossings. The mechanism will streamline control procedures, thereby facilitating the movement of people and goods and promoting bilateral trade.

Economic cooperation featured prominently in discussions between the two heads of state. Angolan President João Lourenço advocated for deeper engagement in the energy and water sectors, including the resumption of the Baynes hydroelectric dam project, which is designed to generate electricity for both Angola and Namibia.

During the meetings, João Lourenço stressed the importance of translating commitments into concrete outcomes for both populations. For her part, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah called for strengthened cooperation in priority sectors and underscored the contribution both countries could make to the continent’s development objectives.

The state visit included bilateral meetings between the two presidents as well as sessions between their respective delegations, during which the priorities of bilateral cooperation were discussed. With the signing of the eight instruments and the convening of the first session of the Binational Commission, Angola and Namibia aim to consolidate their partnership.