By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at his official residence, Mahlamba Ndlopfu in Tshwane.
The visit marks the second meeting between Nandi-Ndaitwah and Ramaphosa, the first official visit to South Africa following her inauguration as President of the Republic of Namibia on 21 March 2025.
In 2012, Namibia and South Africa elevated their bilateral cooperation mechanism by transforming the Heads of State Economic Forum into a Bi-National Commission (BNC). Since its establishment, the BNC has served as a critical platform for high-level dialogue, coordination of economic and foreign policy positions, including the implementation of joint programmes across a broad range of sectors.
The two countries enjoy strong bilateral relations, underpinned by geographic proximity, the economic interdependence, and shared values within SADC, and the AU.
Discussions focused on mutual cooperation, ongoing dialogue, and regional interests, including SADC and G20 roles. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation and advancing common regional objectives.
Ramaphosa highlighted that the aim of the visit was to “discuss, review and strengthen our political, social and economic” relations.
“Today we were able to cement our own personal relations, we had very good discussions and in many ways, it goes to show how close we are.”
Ramaphosa said he is looking forward to working closely with Nandi-Ndaitwah and her government to advance mutual political and economic interest and the integration of the African continent.
South Africa and Namibia enjoy excellent bilateral relations due to the deep fraternal and historic relationship cemented during the fight against colonialism and apartheid.
Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted historic ties and the importance of continued collaboration for both nations and the region.
She re-affirmed the strong bilateral relations between Namibia and South Africa and pledged to work with Ramaphosa to scale up economic cooperation between the two nations.
Nandi-Ndaitwah also commended Ramaphosa for his leadership of the G20 and for advancing the interests of the African continent through that fora.
Namibia and South Africa are members of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), which plays a pivotal role in fostering regional economic integration and industrial development. Namibia is expected to host the forthcoming SACU Summit on 27 June 2025.