Staff Reporter
A SENIOR United States delegation has concluded a four-day visit to Namibia aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, energy, mining and logistics, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to developing commercially driven partnerships.
The delegation, led by U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Southern Africa Nick Checker, joined U.S. Ambassador to Namibia John Giordano and Africa Senior Advisor Chris Kulukundis for engagements with Namibian government officials and business leaders from 11 to 14 June 2026.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Windhoek, discussions focused on advancing a partnership centred on trade, investment and mutually beneficial economic cooperation.
Photos: U.S. Embassy Namibia
One of the key engagements took place on 12 June when the delegation met with Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musavyi to discuss expanding commercial ties between Namibia and the United States.
The discussions highlighted Namibia’s strategic advantages in sectors such as energy, critical minerals and logistics, with both sides exploring opportunities to deepen economic cooperation and attract investment.
The U.S. delegation reaffirmed its support for translating shared economic priorities into investment projects, with American companies contributing technology, expertise, skills development and long-term economic value.
The delegation also met with Walvis Bay Corridor Group Chief Executive Officer Edward Shivute to discuss Namibia’s growing role as a logistics hub linking southern Africa to global markets.
Ambassador Giordano described the Port of Walvis Bay as an increasingly important gateway for regional trade and a strategic hub connecting mineral, energy and agricultural exports to international markets.
Further engagements were held with members of the Namibia Petroleum Operators Association (NAMPOA) and Chamber of Mines Chief Executive Officer Fabian Shaanika, reflecting continued U.S. interest in Namibia’s energy and mining industries.
The visit comes as several international energy companies continue exploring offshore oil and gas opportunities along Namibia’s coastline, while global interest in the country’s mineral resources continues to grow.
On 13 June, the delegation travelled to Deep Yellow’s Tumas uranium project in the Erongo Region, where they met with Managing Director Zebra Kasete and his executive team.
During the visit, the delegation received briefings on the development of the uranium project and Namibia’s growing role in global energy and critical mineral supply chains.
The U.S. Embassy noted that Namibia’s position as one of the world’s leading uranium producers, combined with its emerging offshore energy sector and logistics infrastructure, makes it an increasingly significant partner in global energy and industrial development.
The visit formed part of broader efforts by the United States to strengthen engagement with African countries through trade and investment partnerships focused on long-term economic growth and development.
