Vice President Lucia Witbooi emphasised the importance of Africa moving beyond the export of raw materials, urging the continent to process resources in its own factories to grow its wealth. 

Speaking during a session at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) in Algiers, Witbooi described the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a vital vehicle for shared prosperity and called for its full implementation to truly harness the benefits of the agreement.

The Vice President emphasised Namibia's commitment to sustainable economic development through industrialisation and value addition. 

She noted the country's efforts to manage marine resources responsibly by promoting local processing to generate employment and maximise value creation.

Namibia, she said, has also moved beyond exporting raw materials by expanding diamond cutting and polishing locally, ensuring greater benefits for Namibians. 

Vice President Witbooi further highlighted Namibia's commitment to investing in renewable energy and embracing industrial transformation.

Witbooi also identified important issues that require resolution to fully realise the benefits of the AfCFTA. 

These include eliminating non-tariff barriers, harmonising standards and regulations, and fostering intra-African manufacturing and value addition. 

For Namibia, the IATF presents a vital platform to establish strategic partnerships with other African nations, boost economic activity and gain access to broader markets across the continent.