Namibia is strengthening cooperation with The Netherlands in agriculture, water management and investment as part of efforts to advance the country’s development agenda.

This was noted on Wednesday by Namibia’s ambassador to Belgium, The Netherlands, Luxembourg and the European Union, Alfredo Hengari, after presenting his letters of credence to king Willem-Alexander of The Netherlands.

Hengari highlighted opportunities for Namibia to learn from one of the world’s leading agricultural nations.

Although The Netherlands covers only about 41 500 square kilometres, it is the world’s second-largest exporter of agricultural products by value after the United States.

He noted that Dutch agricultural exports exceed €65 billion annually, making a significant contribution to the country’s economy.

According to Hengari, Namibia, with more than 824 000 square kilometres of land and vast untapped agricultural potential, stands to benefit from Dutch expertise in precision farming, greenhouse production, agroforestry, sustainable water management and agricultural digitalisation.

“President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has made it clear that agriculture is central to food security and economic transformation. We must harness our strengths and natural resources to fight poverty,” he said.

Hengari noted that the embassy will actively pursue partnerships with Dutch businesses, universities, research institutions and centres of excellence to attract investment, technology transfer, training opportunities and capacity-building initiatives.

Water cooperation also remains a priority. He said Namibia’s water challenges make The Netherlands a strategic partner due to its global reputation in water management and infrastructure development.

Hengari pointed to growing trade relations between the two countries, with bilateral trade rising from about N$2.34 billion in 2020 to N$8.8 billion in 2022.

Beyond agriculture and water, Hengari said Namibia is seeking stronger collaboration with The Netherlands in sport, scientific research and cultural exchanges.

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