Namibia

Estonia and Namibia established a diplomatic relationship in 2004. Namibia is ESTDEV’s focus in Southern Africa, where development cooperation targets e-government, education, business development, and the green revolution.

One of Namibia’s biggest strides in establishing a strong democracy has been the ongoing development of e-governance, a goal that Estonia has championed with the country since 2013. To this end, Estonia’s e-Governance Academy has collaborated with Cybernetica to develop the Nam-X data exchange system. This platform is now the interface through which Namibia’s e-government services have begun.

Namibia is making significant progress in the development of renewable energy. As one of the world’s sunniest coastal countries, Namibia is considered an excellent region for green hydrogen production. In November 2022, the European Union signed a strategic partnership with the Namibian government to accelerate the production of hydrogen using renewable sources. This step, signifying Namibia’s entrance into the green revolution, has opened doors for Estonia to support the related business environment, adapt education, and raise environmental awareness and digital skills.

From 2009–2023, Namibia’s strides have been buoyed through various development cooperation and humanitarian aid projects, amounting to nearly €750,000 in funding and 12 implemented projects. As of September 1, 2023, ESTDEV is supporting six projects through which Estonian partners help to develop Nam-X’s capacity as well as cultivate several startup ecosystems, including those of green energy and circular economy. Other ongoing projects evaluate the digital maturity of the country, increase digital competence within Namibian companies, and develop digital and entrepreneurial skills in young people in a way that reinforces cultural heritage.