Namibia Roundup: Safest country in Africa, Lumpy Skin Disease, drug use and trafficking
Namibia ranked fourth safest country in Africa
Namibia has recently been ranked as the fourth safest country in Africa, according to a study by Altezza Travel, which considered global safety perceptions and citizen experiences. This ranking comes in the wake of assessments that placed Mauritius, Ghana, and Zambia ahead of Namibia. Spokesperson Romeo Muyunda highlighted the role of Namibia's political stability and its thriving tourism industry in achieving this accolade. The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism is launching a tourism safety campaign aimed at bolstering Namibia’s attractiveness to both travellers and investors. The overarching goal is for Namibia to reach the status of the safest country in Africa, facilitated by ongoing collaboration between citizens and law enforcement.
Over 73 Lumpy Skin Disease reported
Namibia's Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) has sounded the alarm over 73 confirmed cases of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) reported in the Otjombinde Constituency, Omaheke Region. Acting Chief Veterinary Officer Johannes Shoopala has urged farmers to report LSD occurrences to state veterinarians, as the disease poses significant risks to the livestock sector. It is transmitted through insect bites, leading to severe implications for Namibia's beef exportation, which is a crucial part of the nation's economy. Farmers are advised to vaccinate their livestock, implement effective insect control measures, and promptly report any suspicious cases.
Namibia police raise concerns amid rise in drug use and trafficking
In light of rising drug use and trafficking, the Namibian Police have raised serious concerns regarding the expanding demographic involved in these illicit activities, including mothers and elderly individuals. Notably, a recent operation led to the arrest of a 60-year-old woman at the Ariamsvlei Border Post in possession of methamphetamine valued at N$1.3 million (over USD 69,000). December 2024 saw a considerable rise in drug-related arrests, with 126 individuals apprehended for various offences. Among these cases, a mother and daughter were found with 187 cannabis plants worth N$1.7 million (about USD 91,000), alongside other substantial quantities of drugs such as mandrax and cocaine. The increasing number of Namibians arrested internationally for drug trafficking has also raised concerns about the country’s reputation on the global stage.
Trade relations with China
China emerged as the largest trading partner in November 2024. Approximately 26.8% of Namibia's exports, predominantly uranium, were directed towards China, while the country accounted for 24.6% of Namibia's imports, which include aircraft and motor vehicles. Namibia's trade deficit has improved from 7.7 billion Namibian dollars (about USD 413 million) in October to 5.5 billion (over USD 295 million) in November. Other key trading partners include South Africa, Botswana, Belgium, and Zambia, with South Africa contributing 17.4% to exports and a substantial 34.9% to imports.
Namibia hails removal of Cuba from terrorism sponsor list
Namibia has formally welcomed the United States' decision to remove Cuba from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, viewing it as a positive milestone for international diplomacy and justice. President Nangolo Mbumba praised the Biden Administration’s announcement as a long-awaited move that corresponds with Namibia's ongoing advocacy for Cuba's removal from what he considers an unjust designation. He further stressed that this step should pave the way for the U.S. to terminate its economic blockade against Cuba. Namibia has long upheld its support for Cuba on various international platforms, with National Assembly Speaker Peter Katjavivi also acknowledging this decision as a constructive advancement towards normalising U.S.-Cuba relations.
