Walvis Bay
Namibian Ambassador to Finland Bonny Haufiku says Namibians should take advantage of the excellent, world-class education and business opportunities offered by Finland.
Since it implemented huge educational reforms some 40 years ago, Finland’s school system has consistently been at the top of the rankings for education systems worldwide.
Haufiku was speaking at the official opening of the Maritime Logistics Seminar between Namibia and Finland currently underway in Walvis Bay. The seminar focuses on the economic potential of relations between Namibia and Finland, while it also aims to build capacity between the logistic sectors of Namibia and Finland, in order to enhance business relations between the two countries.
The seminar is being hosted by the Satakunta University of Applied Sciences of Finland, in cooperation with the Faculty of Logistics and Maritime Technology, Finland, the Polytechnic of Namibia, the Namibian-German Institute for Logistics, the Namibia Fisheries and Maritime Institute, the Embassy of Finland and the Walvis Bay Corridor Group. Haufiku says Finland is one of the best countries in terms of technical development, which can be beneficial for a country such as Namibia that still needs to catch up with the world in areas, such as renewable energy, health and the maritime sector.
“Namibia is very lucky to have sound relations with a reliable European partner, Finland, which is regarded as one of the most skilled and developed countries. We need to catch up with this technology, whether it is in energy, health or maritime [industry]. Finland is our partner and is willing to share its expertise with us,” Haufiku said. He said diplomats are facilitators and one of their tasks is to create bridges of cooperation and to encourage partnership, whether in the maritime sector, or creating investment opportunities. He urged Namibians to take advantage of the opportunities on offer, especially in the business sector, which is still under-capitalised.
“Finnish businesspeople are keen on partnering with Namibia. They want to come to Namibia. Therefore, take the opportunity and collaborate. See what business and education opportunities are there. This type of partnership creates a conducive environment for mutual benefit and fosters economic growth, so let us make use of these opportunities while still available,” Haufiku argued.
He also told the Finnish delegation that Namibia and Africa itself offer investment opportunities they can rely on. “Don’t go too slow, as this is the time before the train departs. We have natural resources you don’t have, but you have the skills and expertise. So, let us partner,” Haufiku said.