Namibia is pushing for increased oil investment cooperation, expanded trade through a direct shipping route and stronger food security ties with Brazil, following high-level talks here yesterday.
International relations and trade minister Selma Ashipala-Musavyi met her Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira in discussions aimed at turning decades of political cooperation into concrete economic gains, particularly in energy, agriculture and trade.
The meeting focused on attracting investment into Namibia’s oil and gas discoveries, boosting agricultural production and making full use of a direct maritime trade link between the two countries.
“Namibia has made significant discoveries in oil and gas and renewable energy in the form of green hydrogen. We extend a strong invitation to the Brazilian private sector to explore the opportunities available,” she said.
Responding to Namibia’s priorities, Vieira confirmed Brazil’s readiness to expand cooperation, particularly in oil development, trade and food supply.
“The wealth generated by the oil industry creates opportunities for our countries to grow, create jobs, promote social inclusion, and finance the transition to low-carbon economies,” he said. He revealed that Brazil’s state-owned oil company, Petrobras, has returned to Namibia as part of this growing cooperation.
“That is the reason why Petrobras has returned to Namibia. We hope that the negotiations between our respective companies will bear fruit and contribute to the development of the well-being of our peoples,” Vieira said.
The move is expected to support Namibia’s ambitions to become a significant oil producer while opening opportunities for investment and job creation.
Vieira also stressed Brazil’s readiness to support Namibia’s food security efforts through both exports and technical cooperation.
“Brazil can contribute to the food security of the Namibian population by providing safe, affordable, and nutritious food products,” he said.
He added that discussions are ongoing to maintain exports of Brazilian pork and poultry, while also expanding cooperation in agriculture.
On trade, Vieira acknowledged the need to strengthen economic ties.
“We recognise the potential in our economic exchange and reaffirm the commitment of the two governments to promote greater dynamism in bilateral trade,” he said.
Vieira echoed this stance, saying, “I am confident that we will continue to work side by side to ensure that the global south has an active voice in major international decisions and discussions.”
She said Namibia wants Brazilian companies to invest beyond extraction and move into value addition.
“We encourage Brazilian companies to consider establishing manufacturing and processing plants in Namibia to add value to these resources locally,” she said, adding that such investment would support “job creation, skills transfer, and inclusive economic growth.”
A major highlight from Ashipala-Musavyi’s statement was the emphasis on a direct shipping route between the two countries, which Namibia sees as a game changer for trade.
The minister added Namibia is determined to increase activity along this route through more investment and business exchanges, linking not only the two countries but also the wider SADC and Mercosur regions.
Agriculture
In addition, the career diplomat highlighted agriculture as a priority area, with Namibia seeking to benefit from Brazil’s advanced farming technologies.
“As a country striving to enhance food security and reduce dependence on imports, Namibia is eager to expand this cooperation,” she said.
She pointed to opportunities in smallholder farming, livestock management and agri-processing as key areas for collaboration.
On the defence front, she continued, Namibia’s long-standing naval cooperation with Brazil is a cornerstone of the relationship.