President Nandi-Ndaitwah urges Huawei to create jobs in Namibia's AI and digital transformation efforts
via The Namibian1 min read
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called on Chinese technology company Huawei to assist in creating employment opportunities for Namibians as the country moves towards artificial intelligence AI and digital transformation. This request was made during a meeting with Huawei executives at their Shenzhen headquarters in China. Nandi-Ndaitwah commended Huawei's collaboration with Namibia's Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security and the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology on smart city solutions and an AI-ready national data center. She emphasized that digital transformation should modernize public services, create jobs, and equip Namibians with necessary skills for an AI-driven economy. The president also acknowledged the Chinese government's 98 million yuan contribution to Namibia's smart city pilot project, which she believes will support innovation, industrialization, and skills development, strengthening public services and boosting investor and tourist confidence. While recognizing concerns about AI replacing jobs, Nandi-Ndaitwah stated that the partnership with Huawei would focus on preparing workers for new opportunities through digital skills training and innovation. Leo Chen, Huawei senior vice president for enterprise sales, affirmed the company's commitment to supporting Namibia's digital economy, strengthening data sovereignty, and providing technology solutions to improve governance and public service delivery.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
Namibia achieved its largest trade surplus with China in May, exporting N$1.5 billion more than it imported, according to the Namibia Statistics Agency NSA. This positioned China as Namibia's most favorable trading partner for the month, surpassing Botswana N$1.3 billion surplus and Canada N$463 million surplus. Despite an overall trade deficit of N$3.1 billion, increased export earnings, totaling N$12.4 billion in May, helped mitigate rising import costs. Uranium was the primary contributor to the export surplus, generating N$2.8 billion, followed by fish and non-monetary gold at N$1.3 billion each, and diamonds at N$1.2 billion. Total imports reached N$15.5 billion, with petroleum oils causing a N$2.4 billion trade deficit. Namibia recorded significant trade deficits with South Africa N$2.5 billion and the United States N$2.2 billion. Trade with Africa constituted nearly half of Namibia's total trade in May, with exports to African markets at N$5.9 billion and imports at N$7 billion, resulting in a regional trade deficit of N$1.2 billion. The NSA emphasizes the importance of regional trade for economic integration and reducing reliance on external markets, citing initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The Independent Patriots for Change IPC has criticized the Namibian government for suspending restrictions that prevented Nasan Energies from sourcing fuel from Vitol. The IPC argues this decision weakens competition in the fuel sector and contradicts the government's justification of appointing a single bulk fuel supplier, which the party identifies as Vitol Bahrain EC. The Namibian Competition Commission NaCC had imposed these restrictions in April, finding that the deal would likely reduce competition. However, Minister Modestus Amutse suspended the conditions under Section 49 of the Competition Act, citing a lack of public representations during the review. The IPC claims Vitol already controls 75% to 85% of Namibia鈥檚 wholesale fuel market and warns that reduced competition could lead to higher fuel prices for consumers. The party has called for the minister to table the full Section 49 review record, including supporting documents and reasons for the decision. They also seek confirmation that Vitol is the single bulk supplier, details of its appointment terms, whether the NaCC was consulted before the suspension, and when the suspension will end.
Must ReadThe World Cup has reached the quarter-final stage with eight teams remaining, all set to compete in the United States. France, considered favorites, will face Morocco in Boston. France has advanced through the group stage and defeated Sweden and Paraguay, showcasing a strong attack. Morocco, unbeaten, overcame the Netherlands on penalties and Canada 3-0, seeking revenge after losing to France in the semi-finals four years ago. Spain, having achieved six consecutive World Cup clean sheets, will play Belgium in Los Angeles. Spain's efficient play includes Mikel Oyarzabal, who has scored four goals. Belgium enters after a 4-1 win against the United States and a 3-2 comeback victory against Senegal. Norway will challenge England in Miami. England, among the tournament favorites, saw captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham score 10 of their 11 goals, including three in a 3-2 win against Mexico. Norway's Erling Haaland has scored seven goals and will be a key threat. Argentina, the defending champions, will meet Switzerland in Kansas City. Argentina survived scares against Cape Verde and Egypt, with Lionel Messi playing a central role. Switzerland, reaching the last eight for the first time since 1954, beat Colombia on penalties.