Rudolf Gaiseb
Namibia and Tanzania need to extend their shared solidarity of Pan-Africanism to embrace economic transformation.
This is according to Tanzania’s deputy prime minister Doto Biteko.
He indicated that the continent is facing new challenges, and it is imperative to secure a desirable future for the continent that prioritises economic development, allowing its people to lead lives of dignity and fulfilment, while ensuring the amplification of meaningful voices in global politics.
“Economic transformation remains a central challenge for Africa, including Namibia and Tanzania, and despite abundant natural resources, we still struggle with insufficient financial and human capital,” said Biteko, who is also Tanzania’s energy minister.
He was addressing students and lecturers at Triumphant College in Windhoek this week.
He added that financial capital is essential for developing productive capacities, while human capital is critical for applying advanced technologies to create globally-competitive products.
“Both nations are rich in resources, and have the potential to advance our mineral, livestock and agricultural sectors through joint ventures and technological innovation. Enhancing cooperation in fishing and health sectors will contribute to food security and improved healthcare for our populations,” Biteko said.
He further said although the two nations had already established a foundation for progress through various bilateral initiatives, they have a few more areas for possible collaboration and interaction.
Biteko highlighted the need to collaborate through artificial intelligence and other technological advances, which he said will position the two countries at the forefront of the global economy.
“We must invest in human capital to harness these technologies effectively,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the partnership between the Open University of Tanzania and Triumphant College will be a shining example of shared commitment to educational excellence, which is also an area that calls for alliance.
Triumphant College rector Geoffrey Kiangi said the college will continue exploring collaboration opportunities, given the relationship between the two states.
“The college is currently finishing the construction of two new laboratories for technology and artificial intelligence, and we will begin to develop programmes in these fields. There are also ongoing efforts to introduce Kiswahili as a language that will be taught at the college. These areas will foster deeper cultural ties and mutual understanding between our countries,” he stated.