Mudavadi pushes Raila’s AUC bid, direct flights in Namibia visit

Mudavadi confirmed in a press release on Sunday that he will meet with Namibia's Vice President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and Minister for International Relations and Cooperation, Peya Mushelenga. 

The high-level visit is a significant step towards strengthening Kenya-Namibia economic and diplomatic relations.

The leaders are expected to review several key agreements between the two countries, dating back to 1964. 

Among the top priorities is the establishment of a Namibian Diplomatic Mission in Nairobi to improve diplomatic and business relations.

Kenya and Namibia have had a long-standing relationship, which was formalised in a General Agreement on Cooperation signed in 1992. 

The partnership has seen collaboration in agriculture, health, aviation, and education. 

Both countries are also active participants in the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA) and the COMESA-SADC-EAC Tripartite Free Trade Area, both of which seek to strengthen regional economic integration.

While speaking to the press, Mudavadi emphasised the trade imbalance between the two countries, with Namibia enjoying a trade surplus.

 “Kenya exports approximately KSh 106.31 million worth of goods to Namibia annually, while imports from Namibia amount to KSh 117.76 million,” he noted. 

The Prime Cabinet Secretary emphasised Kenya's export potential, particularly in black tea, coffee, and agricultural products.

Namibia, which imports approximately 50% of its cereal requirements, provides a unique opportunity for Kenyan agricultural businesses.

Mudavadi will advocate for Kenyan investors to take advantage of the two countries' strong diplomatic relations and visa-free protocols to pursue these opportunities.

Beyond trade, the discussions will centre on increasing cooperation in areas such as the blue economy, water conservation, and livestock farming. 

Mudavadi will also meet with Namibian officials to discuss the possibility of establishing direct flights between Kenya and Namibia via Kenya Airways, which would increase connectivity in the Southern African region.

As part of his diplomatic mission, Mudavadi will rally support for Kenya's bid to elect Raila Odinga as Chairperson of the African Union Commission in February 2025.