The president of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), Abdullah Khalil Al-Musaibeeh, is in Namibia for three days to strengthen bilateral cooperation and explore new development opportunities.

The visit comes at the invitation of the International Relations and Trade Minister, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, to grow the partnership between Namibia and BADEA in advancing economic development goals.

They were joined by Ministers of Transport and Finance Veiko Nekundi and Ericah Shafudah, respectively, as well as Education Deputy Minister Dino Balotti.

The engagement aimed to enhance cooperation and identify priority sectors for collaboration, aligning with Namibia's Sixth National Development Plan.

Key areas of interest include trade, infrastructure development, agriculture, and investment, which are seen as critical to Namibia's long-term economic growth and sustainability.

During his visit, President Al-Musaibeeh is also expected to engage with stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to further explore opportunities for partnership and investment.

BADEA provides a range of development finance solutions, including concessional loans to both public and private entities, as well as funding for projects in trade, infrastructure, agriculture, rural development, and social sectors. 

The institution also offers grants aimed at strengthening institutional and human capacity.

Namibia and BADEA share a longstanding and strategic partnership, with cooperation historically centred on infrastructure development, agricultural expansion, and financial sector support.

The visit is expected to deepen ties and pave the way for expanded collaboration aligned with Namibia's national development priorities.