Namibia looks to Russia as a trusted partner for nuclear cooperation, aiming to develop its uranium sector and boost energy and economic ties.
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| Namibia aims to collaborate with Russia on nuclear energy, leveraging its uranium resources for development. |
Windhoek, Namibia – March 4, 2025:
Namibia has signaled its intent to strengthen nuclear cooperation with Russia, seeing Moscow as a reliable partner in energy and economic development. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Namibia (UNAM), Frednard Gideon, highlighted this interest at the ‘Russia-Africa: Nuclear Education-Potential for Successful Regional Development’ forum in Moscow, according to an RT report.
Gideon pointed out that Namibia, the world’s fourth-largest uranium producer, has been mining the resource since 1976. However, he noted that much of it is exported without being processed locally. He stressed that partnering with Russia could help Namibia derive greater benefits from its uranium reserves.
Diplomatic ties between Namibia and Russia date back to March 21, 1990, with both countries expanding their cooperation in trade, energy, healthcare, and mining. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov previously emphasized the potential for increased investment between the two nations. In November, Namibia’s Foreign Minister Peya Mushelenga confirmed that a joint technical team had been formed to explore geophysics and geochemistry for new mineral discoveries.
Russia has been deepening its engagement in Africa, positioning itself as a trusted ally despite Western criticism. Moscow recently signed a nuclear technology cooperation agreement with Ethiopia, further underlining its commitment to Africa’s energy development.
At the Moscow forum, South African lawyer Nkazimulo Moyeni underscored the benefits of nuclear energy, arguing that it is often misrepresented as a mere weapon rather than a vital tool for sustainable development. The annual event, hosted by Peoples' Friendship University (RUDN) and Rosatom, aims to promote nuclear education and foster trust in the technology among African nations.