AGP Executive Report

Livestock Trade: Foot-and-mouth disease has reached Zambezi, Namibia’s second affected region. Authorities have begun emergency vaccination and suspended livestock movements and sales, adding pressure to farmers and the meat trade. Mineral Value Addition: Namibia has adopted a beneficiation strategy to encourage local processing of critical minerals, with restrictions on exporting some unprocessed ores and requirements for foreign investors to form local joint ventures. Public Funds: Finance Minister Erica Shafudah says GIPF’s N$922 million impairment is not a confirmed loss; about N$815 million is tied to an investment caught up in an unresolved South African tax dispute. Regional Trade: Namibia, Botswana and South Africa have pledged to attract investment and develop business along the Trans-Kalahari Corridor. Investor Visas: A new five-year visa route is in effect, with NIPDB assessing applicants’ investment proposals; no minimum investment threshold has been set.

FMD and Beef Trade: The High Court has allowed emergency construction of a southern border fence to continue as Namibia fights foot-and-mouth disease. The outbreak has already prompted temporary EU restrictions on fresh meat exports from the affected zone, raising pressure to contain the disease and protect market access. Regional Finance: Botswana’s BPOPF will underwrite Letshego’s P800 million rights offer as the lender cuts debt and withdraws from five African markets. Jobs and Investment: A UNAM job fair connected students and graduates with about 30 Chinese companies hiring across mining, manufacturing, tourism, construction and logistics. South African electrical supplier ACDC Dynamics has opened its first Namibian shop, hiring 20 locals and signalling plans to expand its workforce. Green Industry: Germany and Namibia have agreed N$103 million for projects to expand sustainable electricity access and develop critical-minerals value chains. Trade and Exports: Namibia’s August trade deficit narrowed to N$3.9 billion, while uranium generated N$3.4 billion in sales to China and France, accounting for 26.5% of export earnings.

Investment: Germany and Namibia have signed a N$103 million deal for projects in sustainable energy and local critical-minerals value chains. Electrical supplier ACDC Dynamics has also opened its first Windhoek shop, hiring 20 Namibians and planning to expand its workforce. Trade and Mining: Namibia’s August trade deficit narrowed to N$3.9 billion from N$5.9 billion in July, with exports led by uranium, gold and diamonds. France and China bought N$3.4 billion of Namibian uranium that month. Oil exploration fees reached N$37.9 million, nearly four times budget, while diamond royalties fell short of forecasts. Agriculture: The EU’s suspension of Namibian meat imports following foot-and-mouth disease threatens a valuable export market, as farmers seek support to contain the outbreak and restore trade. Projects and Jobs: Sinomine’s planned N$4 billion expansion could create up to 1,600 jobs, while Bannerman Energy says its Etango uranium project may need more than US$353 million in pre-production funding.

Business Expansion: South African electrical supplier ACDC Dynamics has opened its first Namibian express shop in Windhoek, hiring 20 local staff and planning to grow its workforce beyond 40. Uranium and Trade: France and China bought N$3.4 billion of Namibian uranium in August, when uranium led exports. The trade deficit narrowed to N$3.9 billion from N$5.9 billion in July, though imports still exceeded exports. Energy Investment: Oil exploration rental fees reached N$37.9 million, nearly four times budget, as operators step up activity. Bannerman Energy says its Etango uranium project may need more than US$353 million before production. Power Supply: NamPower aims for 80% electricity self-sufficiency and a 70% renewable share by 2030, preparing for higher industrial demand. Digital Banking: Bank Windhoek reports more than 900% growth in mobile app users since 2021 and says it has recorded no fraud among customers using facial recognition. Housing: Government provided N$146 million to the Shack Dwellers Federation in 2025/26; about 1,864 homes were completed nationwide.

Critical Minerals: Namibia joined a five-year UN programme to boost local processing and value from minerals. Investment: Windhoek will host the Canada-Africa Business Conference in February 2027, with a visit to B2Gold’s Otjikoto mine. Energy: NamPower aims for 80% domestic electricity self-reliance and 70% renewables by 2030 as industrial demand grows. Mining Finance: Oil exploration fees reached N$37.9 million, nearly four times budget, while diamond royalties fell N$630 million short of estimates; Bannerman says Etango could need more than US$353 million before production. Trade: Namibia’s August trade deficit narrowed to N$3.9 billion from N$5.9 billion in July. Credit Outlook: Moody’s raised its outlook for Namibia and several regional economies to positive, citing reforms and stronger commodity prices. Livestock Trade: The EU’s temporary suspension of Namibian meat imports over foot-and-mouth disease threatens a key export market as cases rise.

Mining and Jobs: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has urged mining companies to create lasting jobs, warning against cycling workers through contractors to cut labour costs. The sector contracted 3.1% in the second quarter, though strong metal prices cushioned output; Sinomine’s planned N$4 billion expansion is expected to create up to 1,600 jobs. Regional Expansion: Capricorn Group is entering South Africa with a binding offer for an 81.6% stake in asset financier Centrafin, valued at R788.3 million. Trade and Exports: Namibia’s trade deficit narrowed to N$3.9 billion in August, while a proposed Trade Management Bill would establish a trade commission. The EU’s suspension of some Namibian meat imports over foot-and-mouth disease threatens exporters and jobs. Credit Outlook: Moody’s has lifted its outlook for Namibia and several other sub-Saharan African countries to positive, citing reforms and stronger commodity prices, while warning that debt risks remain. Infrastructure: Chinese-Namibian joint ventures have completed road upgrades in Khomas and Erongo, including a N$231.6 million stretch of Windhoek’s Southern Link.

Petroleum Governance: MPs are challenging an oil bill that would shift powers to the President, warning that changes to royalty approvals could weaken safeguards on public revenue and leave local-content promises unenforceable. Regional Expansion: Capricorn Group has offered R788.3 million for an 81.6% stake in South African asset financier Centrafin, a major push to grow beyond Namibia and Botswana. FMD Fallout: The EU’s suspension of some Namibian meat imports is adding pressure on the sector; Beefcor is considering 393 job cuts, while the workers’ union is urging the company to wait. Trade and Exports: Namibia’s August trade deficit narrowed to N$3.9 billion as exports rose 18.8% month on month. A new bill would establish a trade commission to manage tariffs and investigate dumping and subsidised imports. Public Finance: Simonis Storm says the Welwitschia Fund bill lacks key deposit and withdrawal rules and adequate checks on ministerial powers, despite the fund reaching N$508.47 million. Green Investment: Namibia and Germany will focus development cooperation on water security, biodiversity, green energy and skills, with the stated aim of supporting green industrialisation, trade and jobs.

Trade: Namibia’s trade deficit narrowed to N$3.9 billion in August from N$5.9 billion in July, as exports climbed 18.8% to N$12.7 billion. A new bill would establish an independent commission to set tariffs and investigate unfair trade practices. Regional expansion: Capricorn Group made a binding R788.3 million offer for an 81.6% stake in South Africa’s Centrafin, advancing its push to diversify beyond Namibia and Botswana. Public finances: Simonis Storm says the Welwitschia Fund Bill lacks key deposit rules and safeguards against political influence, despite the fund reaching N$508.47 million. Agriculture: The EU’s suspension of Namibian meat imports over foot-and-mouth disease threatens export earnings; the Namibia Agricultural Union is urging swift action to restore market access. Mining: A private investor partnership plans to restart the Elizabeth Bay diamond mine near Lüderitz. Credit outlook: Moody’s has shifted its sub-Saharan Africa outlook to positive, including Namibia, while warning that debt costs and limited government revenues remain risks.

Mining Investment: Sinomine is building Namibia’s first germanium plant in a N$4 billion expansion expected to create up to 1,600 jobs. Livestock Crisis: Foot-and-mouth disease has reached 127 cases on 15 farms, prompting the EU to suspend imports of Namibian meat. Beefcor is considering 393 job cuts as slaughtering and exports are disrupted; farmers are seeking emergency relief. Public Finances: Namibia’s tax revenue equalled 35.25% of GDP in 2024, but economists say roughly a third of total revenue came from the SACU pool rather than domestic taxpayers. Mining Outlook: The sector contracted 3.1% year-on-year in the second quarter, despite 4.8% growth across the economy. The Chamber of Mines warns a prolonged Middle East conflict could further weaken investment and demand. Credit Outlook: Moody’s has turned positive on sub-Saharan Africa, citing reforms and strong commodity prices; it expects regional growth of 4.3% in 2026 and 2027 and includes Namibia among countries with positive outlooks.

FMD Shock: The EU has suspended imports of some Namibian meat after foot-and-mouth disease cases rose to 127 across 15 farms. Beefcor is considering cutting 393 jobs at its Okahandja abattoir as slaughtering and exports are disrupted; government says it is working to contain the outbreak and restore trade. Mining: The sector contracted 3.1% in the second quarter, despite strong metal prices cushioning export earnings. A separate boost could come from the planned restart of Elizabeth Bay mine, with investment expected to reach US$50 million. Economic Outlook: Namibia’s growth outlook has been revised down as inflation rises, while the banking sector holds N$9.8 billion in liquidity but private-sector credit growth remains subdued at 4.5%. Trade and Investment: Germany committed about N$822 million to development projects in Namibia, including vocational training, energy and urban development. Government has also tabled a Trade Management Bill aimed at strengthening trade and industrialisation. Youth Enterprise: The One Economy Foundation raised N$4.9 million for its youth programmes, while STADIO’s share scheme gives postgraduate graduates a stake in the institution.

Namibia Air Watch: Opposition MPs warn Namibia Air’s December launch is at risk, with certification and aircraft readiness still unresolved—raising concerns that national pride could outpace a workable business model. City Finance: Windhoek’s cash position has strengthened, with City coffers rising to about N$1.1 billion, as leadership stresses balancing service delivery with financial sustainability. Trade & Industry Policy: Government tabled the International Trade Management Bill to create an independent commission overseeing tariffs and tackling unfair trade practices, aiming to protect local industry and jobs. FMD Shock to Exports: The EU has temporarily suspended some Namibian meat imports after foot-and-mouth disease in //Kharas; Namibia’s Agricultural Union urges a fast, science-based return to market access. Livestock Auctions: Namibia says livestock auctions could resume gradually once the outbreak is contained in Karasburg, with talks underway on protocols with South Africa. Banking & Markets: Bank of Namibia authorised Access Bank Namibia to operate, while Bank Windhoek retained strong market standing and credit outlook. New Energy Mobility: BYD officially enters Namibia via Pupkewitz Motors, bringing a range of electrified models to Windhoek, Walvis Bay and Ongwediva. Education & Skills: Deputy Minister Dino Ballotti admits a digital divide in basic education but says connectivity, devices and ICT support are being rolled out across government schools. Housing Pressure: Walvis Bay faces rising demand for serviced land and affordable housing, with new private-sector developments selling out quickly. Environment & Mining: Namibia granted an environmental clearance certificate for the Sandpiper marine phosphate project, reigniting controversy with fishing-sector opponents. Regional Development: Namibia and Germany deepen cooperation on water security, biodiversity, livelihoods, green energy transition and skills.

FMD Shock to Exports: The EU has temporarily suspended Namibia’s fresh meat imports (cattle, sheep and goats) and some processed products after the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in the Karasburg area, with Namibia’s WOAH status suspended and livestock movement bans already in place—raising immediate pressure on farmers and export jobs. FMD Containment Scrutiny: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says Cabinet approved a buffer-zone plan for //Kharas, including border-fence repairs and veterinary cordon fencing, but reports of weak roadblock enforcement between Windhoek and Lüderitz are fuelling concern over whether controls are being applied consistently. Education Funding Push: Otjozondjupa governor //Khamuseb wants education development funding lifted beyond the current ~10% share, arguing infrastructure and technology needs are outstripping budgets. Power Utility Digital Drive: NamPower plans to make digitalisation central to its 2026–2030 transformation, using AI, automation and smart-grid tools to improve trading, maintenance and service delivery. Banking & Markets: NSX market capitalisation hit N$3 trillion in Q2 2026; Bank Windhoek secured a stable AA+ credit rating and a wage deal granting staff a 6% pay rise plus a 20% transport allowance. Insurance & Health Cover: Namibians hold 2.4 million long-term insurance covers and private medical aid membership reached 226,777, with reserves staying well above prudential minimums. Business Expansion: Namibia launched its first Exporters’ Guide to help MSMEs navigate standards, documentation and customs; Paratus also rolled out Eutelsat OneWeb LEO satellite services. Governance & Housing: Parliament heard housing realities across regions as demand outpaces supply, while Windhoek’s informal beef slaughtering remains prohibited under FMD rules.

FMD Shock to Meat Trade: Namibia’s foot-and-mouth disease outbreak is tightening controls in //Kharas, with surveillance and roadblocks in place and a buffer-zone plan approved by Cabinet—while butcheries and processors report stock shortages and workers on leave; the EU has temporarily suspended fresh and some processed Namibian meat from the previously FMD-free zone, raising pressure on an export-reliant sector. South Africa Red Meat Ripple: The export halt is expected to push up South Africa’s red meat prices, with impacts likely worse for mutton and lamb than for weaner calves. Business Continuity Strain: Savanna Beef has suspended cattle deliveries and bookings as restrictions bite, and Agribank says repayment relief will be assessed case-by-case for affected farmers. Logistics Greener Push: SMSA Africa Logistics expands its fleet with five more Hino diesel-electric hybrid trucks after fuel-saving trials. Finance Deal Watch: Sanlam has moved to buy out Santam’s remaining shares at R505 each, setting up a potential delisting and reshaping regional insurance ownership. Mining Outlook: Namibia’s mining output remains subdued in 2026 as gold and zinc production fall, though uranium growth is expected to support 2027. Household Credit Demand: Namibians borrowed N$9.3bn from microlenders in Q2, with term loans dominating and payday lending driving most new loans. Digital & AI Momentum: Namibia launched a National AI Institute under NCRST and is advancing AfCFTA Digital Trade implementation, while regional ICT regulators meet to tackle AI and cyber risks.

Space & Innovation: Namibia used World Space Week in Windhoek to call for satellite tech, new legislation and partnerships to grow a domestic space economy, with a Space Science and Technology Bill aimed at regulation, capacity-building and investment. Insurance & Capital Markets: Sanlam agreed to buy the remaining shares in Santam it doesn’t already own, moving to full ownership and delisting across the JSE, NSX and A2X at R505 per share. FMD & Trade: The EU temporarily suspended fresh meat and some processed products from Namibia’s previously FMD-free zone after an outbreak in Karasburg/Kharas, while Agribank said repayment relief will be assessed case-by-case for affected farmers and agribusinesses. Digital Trade & AI: Namibia is reviewing its AfCFTA Digital Trade framework to build a national action plan, and launched a National Artificial Intelligence Institute under NCRST with four centres for R&D, datasets, software and innovation. Banking & Rates: Simonis Storm expects the Bank of Namibia to lift the repo rate to 7% in October to protect the Namibia-dollar peg and tackle inflation. Energy & Logistics: NamPower data shows imports still dominate electricity supply, and NamRA will cut customs bond guarantees from 1 November 2026 using a risk-based framework to lower trade costs. Mining & Business Growth: Navachab outlined a major expansion plan, while Rundu was urged to position itself as a regional economic hub.

Economic Outlook: Namibia cut its 2026 growth forecast from 3.1% to about 2.1%, with finance minister Ericah Shafudah saying the economy is underperforming. FMD Response & Labour: The //Kharas FMD outbreak response needs about N$190.2m, including a 290km control fence; meanwhile farmers must still pay the national minimum wage to agricultural workers despite the crisis. Energy Security: Namibia is being urged to prioritise energy security and affordability as demand rises, with a focus on sustainable development. Uranium Deal Watch: Rosatom expects Namibia to approve its “Wings” uranium project in Omaheke within months after assessments are submitted. Court & Payment Modernisation: Magistrates’ Courts are rolling out electronic payments via POS devices with FNB eWallet and cards to reduce cash handling. Business & Trade: ZimTrade plans a Windhoek export mission for Zimbabwean services and FMCG firms; Bank Windhoek also reported credit-rating strength and sector activity. Governance & Services: Windhoek’s Okahandja Park sanitation crisis persists as public toilets fail and residents take over facilities. Social Policy: Churches call for stronger father responsibility as census data shows 53.4% of never-married women are already mothers. Sports & Tourism: Namibia will host key matches for the 2027 Cricket World Cup, starting with a Super Series in Windhoek.

Uranium Deal Watch: Rosatom says it expects Namibia to approve its “Wings” uranium mining project in Omaheke within the next few months, after assessments were submitted to leadership. Foot-and-Mouth Disease Response: Namibia’s agriculture ministry says it needs about N$190.2m to contain FMD in //Kharas, including a 290km disease-control fence and intensified surveillance, testing and movement controls. FMD and Red Meat Trade: An explainer argues the outbreak is a stress test for Namibia’s “red meat diplomacy” — the systems behind veterinary surveillance, traceability and market certification. Education Funding: UNESCO’s 2026 GEM report praises Namibia’s education spending (9.1% of GDP) and pre-primary gains, but flags weak participation beyond primary school. Business & Markets: The 72nd Windhoek Industrial and Agricultural Show ran without livestock due to FMD, but still helped small firms reach customers and test demand. Justice Modernisation: Magistrates’ Courts roll out electronic payments via POS, cutting cash handling and improving audit trails. Banking Expansion: Access Bank secures full authorisation to operate as a commercial bank in Namibia. Transport Infrastructure: The upgraded Karibib–Usakos road (N$552m) is officially opened, with warnings against overloading. Regional Business Support: DBN urges women and youth entrepreneurs in Erongo to use financing programmes like “DBN for Her.”