Namibia’s President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah Visits South Africa to Deepen Bilateral Relations

President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, who is on a Courtesy Introductory Visit to the country. She was received at Mahlamba Ndlopfu in Tshwane, where the two leaders held a high-level meeting aimed at reaffirming the strong diplomatic, economic, and historical ties between the neighboring nations.

The visit marks President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s first official engagement with South Africa since assuming office, and is part of her regional outreach to foster continued collaboration with Namibia’s closest partners.

During the visit, President Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of the moment, noting the depth of connection between the two countries and their shared vision for African unity and progress.

“I’m honored by the President of Namibia, who has graced us with her presence here in South Africa. This visit not only extends the warm and friendly relations between our two countries but also allowed us to strengthen our own personal relationship as leaders. We had fruitful discussions on a wide range of matters, underscoring just how close Namibia and South Africa are,” said President Ramaphosa.

The two leaders held a private tête-à-tête, followed by broader bilateral discussions on key issues of mutual interest, including regional security, economic integration, infrastructure development, and cooperation within continental platforms.

For her part, President Nandi-Ndaitwah reflected on the strategic importance of her visit, rooted in a long history of political solidarity and shared struggle.

“As I settle into office, I find it necessary to visit our neighbors, including South Africa, to reconnect and learn. The historical and economic ties between our nations make this visit essential. It’s about maintaining and strengthening that cooperation,” she remarked. President Nandi-Ndaitwah also noted that this visit has paved the way for future consultations and collaboration between the two nations, particularly at a time when Africa is positioning itself for greater global engagement.

“Our doors are open, and we will continue to consult one another in the interest of our region and Africa as a whole,” she added.

The geographical proximity and shared border between South Africa and Namibia have long fostered strong trade, security, and cultural exchange, and today’s meeting served as a reaffirmation of that enduring partnership.

As both countries look ahead to deeper integration and cooperation, today’s Courtesy Visit signaled a renewed commitment to advancing mutual goals and strengthening the voice of Southern Africa on the global stage.