Namibia has expressed interest in nuclear cooperation with Russia, viewing Moscow as a reliable partner in the field of energy and beyond. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Namibia (UNAM), Frednard Gideon, made the remarks at the 'Russia-Africa: Nuclear Education-Potential for Successful Regional Development' forum, held at Peoples' Friendship University (RUDN) in Moscow, reports BNN citing RT.
Speaking at the event, Gideon highlighted Namibia's status as the world's fourth-largest producer of uranium, noting that the country has been mining the resource since 1976. However, he expressed concern that much of Namibia's uranium is extracted and exported by foreign entities without adding value within the country. He emphasised that Russia, as an equal and dependable partner, presents an opportunity for mutually beneficial cooperation in the nuclear sector.
Namibia and Russia established diplomatic ties on March 21, 1990, and have since strengthened cooperation across political, economic, trade, and humanitarian spheres. Last March, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, following discussions with Namibian counterpart Peya Mushelenga, highlighted the potential for increased trade and investment between the two nations. Mineral resources, energy, agriculture, tourism, and healthcare were identified as key areas for further collaboration.
In November, Mushelenga revealed that a joint technical team had been formed to explore geophysics and geochemistry in Namibia, aiming to uncover additional mineral deposits. Meanwhile, Russia's involvement in Africa has expanded in recent years, with several nations viewing Moscow as a reliable ally despite criticism from Western governments, including France, which has accused the Kremlin of pursuing exploitative policies on the continent.
Russia has been actively pursuing nuclear cooperation with various African states. On February 19, the Russian government announced an agreement with Ethiopia to develop peaceful nuclear technology. Speaking at the Moscow forum, South African lawyer Nkazimulo Moyeni underscored the benefits of nuclear energy, arguing that it is often unfairly stigmatised as a weapon rather than a tool for sustainable development.
The nuclear education forum, organised by RUDN in collaboration with Russian nuclear energy giant Rosatom, has been running since 2020. It aims to promote nuclear education among partner countries and foster greater trust in nuclear technology as a means of economic growth and development.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
