PHILADELPHIA – Namibia and the United States, through the City of Philadelphia, are exploring the possible establishment of direct shipping routes, air links and student exchange programmes.
The deliberations occurred when President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah met Philadelphia mayor Sherelle Parker at City Hall, turning what began as a ceremonial visit into a historic blueprint for economic and cultural cooperation.
Parker welcomed the Namibian leader with a proclamation declaring 25 September 2025, as ‘Welcoming Namibia to Philadelphia Day’.
Parker, who is Philadelphia’s first female mayor, said the city was proud to host Namibia’s first female President.
“Philadelphia thrives on the diversity of our residents and the strength of our international ties. We are grateful for the opportunity to welcome President Nandi-Ndaitwah and her delegation. This is about building one Philadelphia while also building new bridges with nations like Namibia,” she said.
The mayor noted that the city was considering a formal sister-city relationship with the Namibian counterpart, which she said would “open the door for meaningful partnerships in culture, education and business”.
The Philadelphia City Council joined the mayor in honouring the Namibian delegation, describing Namibia as a country recognised for its commitment to democracy, human rights and sustainable development since gaining independence in 1990.
A council resolution praised Nandi-Ndaitwah’s career in public service and her election in 2024 as the country’s first female head of state.
For her part, the Head of State used the occasion to set out a vision for cooperation.
Speaking with what she called “deep humility and sincere gratitude”, she stressed that Namibia’s future lies in collaboration.
“Independence must be matched with interdependence. The success of a nation lies in collaboration, not isolation. By linking our ports and airports, we can reduce costs, strengthen supply chains and create new opportunities for businesses on both sides,” she told the chamber.
The Head of State pointed to Walvis Bay, Namibia’s deep-water port, as a strategic hub for Southern Africa and suggested exploring direct maritime links with Philadelphia.
“Walvis Bay is one of the most advanced ports on the African continent. It is a gateway for landlocked nations to global trade routes. By connecting with Philadelphia, we can make trade more efficient,” the President suggested.
She proposed a direct air connection between Namibia and the United States, with Philadelphia as a potential entry point.
“Such links would not only boost tourism but also facilitate business exchange and the movement of high-value goods,” she said.
Agriculture was another area of opportunity that the Head of State touched on.
After visiting Philadelphia’s Wholesale Produce Market, one of the largest in the United States, the President highlighted Namibia’s potential to supply off-season products, including grapes, beef, fish and salt.
“Namibia is well-positioned to become a reliable supplier to American markets. We must work together to create trade frameworks and investment partnerships to make this vision a reality,” she suggested.
Nandi-Ndaitwah also emphasised education and cultural diplomacy.
She called for student exchanges and joint innovation projects between Namibia and Philadelphia.
“Let us imagine the possibility of our young people studying together, sharing ideas and shaping the future of technology and sustainability,” she said.
Parker welcomed these proposals, stressing that her administration was ready to work with Namibia.
“This is more than a ceremonial moment. It is the beginning of practical collaboration that will open doors for both our people. May this moment serve as a bridge connecting the people of our two nations. Let the friendship between Namibia and Philadelphia continue to flourish for generations to come,” Nandi-Ndaitwah remarked.
-ljason@nepc.com.na