Embassy of Namibia - Belgium

Global Justice and Accountability Mechanisms - H.E. Dr Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI emphasised Namibia’s commitment to international justice and accountability, noting that as a State Party to the Rome Statute, we support global accountability mechanisms that are transparent, non-selective and fair. The Ambassador made these remarks during a meeting with Mr. Guénaël Mettraux, Switzerland’s candidate for election to the International Criminal Court (ICC) and Mr. Léonard Graf, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Switzerland in Brussels, who briefed him on Switzerland’s candidature for the upcoming ICC elections. The engagement provided an opportunity to exchange views on the role of the ICC and the importance of strengthening confidence in international justice and accountability mechanisms.

Strengthening Namibia–Botswana ties in the heart of Europe H.E. Dr Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI received a courtesy call from H.E. Justice Dr. Zein Kebonang, Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of Botswana to the Kingdom of Belgium. Their discussions reflected the special relationship between Namibia and Botswana: two nations, two economies, and two peoples bound by a common history, enduring friendship and a shared vision for the future. The Ambassadors exchanged views on cooperation in the diamond sector, wildlife conservation, regional development and the unique arrangement that allows Namibians and Batswana to travel between the two countries using national identity documents, an enduring symbol of trust and close people-to-people ties. With both Embassies accredited to the Benelux, the meeting also explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration in promoting the interests of Namibia and Botswana while deepening engagement with partners across Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. From the Kalahari to the Benelux, the ties between Namibia and Botswana continue to demonstrate that good neighbours make strong partners.

Solidarity with Cuba: H.E. Dr Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI paid a courtesy call on H.E. Juan Antonio Fernández Palacios, Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to the Kingdom of Belgium and the European Union, reaffirming the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity between Namibia and Cuba. The discussions reflected on a relationship forged during Namibia’s struggle for independence and strengthened through decades of cooperation. Ambassador Palacios shared his own connection to this history, having served as a lieutenant in Angola during the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, where Cuban forces fought alongside SWAPO in the fight for the independence of Namibia. Ambassador HENGARI highlighted increased bilateral cooperation between Namibia and Cuba, in areas such as urban and rural development, health and the medical field with hundreds of Namibian doctors who earned their qualifications in Cuba. Ambassador HENGARI further emphasised the right of the Cuban people to development and reaffirmed Namibia’s call to end the illegal blockade against Cuba. More than a diplomatic engagement, the meeting was a reflection of a friendship forged in shared sacrifice, sustained through solidarity, and carried forward by a common commitment to multilateralism, development, human dignity, and international cooperation.

H.E. Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI signed today the Book of Condolences at the Embassy of the Republic of Angola in Brussels following the passing of H.E Mr. Manuel Domingos AUGUSTO, former Ambassador, Minister of External Relations of the Republic of Angola and Secretary for External Affairs of the MPLA. Reflecting on the legacy of Amb. Manuel Domingos AUGUSTO, Ambassador HENGARI said: « Namibia and Angola enjoy deep bonds of friendship and cooperation that were forged during the crucible of our shared struggle for freedom and the exceptional contributions of Angola during our fight for independence. Amb. Manuel AUGUSTO will be remembered as a steadfast friend of Namibia, who dedicated himself to advancing peace, prosperity, and regional cooperation across the region and Africa at large. He will be remembered fondly. May his soul rest in peace. »

Sports Diplomacy - building bridges and friendship : H.E. Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI joined the opening ceremony at Hofstade Stadium of the EUT20 official launch of the cricket league. Namibia is a recognized emerging cricket nation having qualified several times for the Cricket World Cup since 2001. Ambassador HENGARI's presence throughout the competition is to lend support to our players battling it out for Liège Red Lions (Gerhard Erasmus) and Antwerp Anchors (David Wiese and Ruben Trumpelmann). Ambassador HENGARI is also attending the Games to build bridges through sport and to reinforce the spirit of international engagement that EUT20 Belgium represents, and for which Namibia is known across different fields of human endeavor. About the franchise: EUT20 Belgium is an international franchise T20 cricket league hosted in Brussels, bringing together over 50 internationally acclaimed cricketers from major cricketing nations around the world. The league is designed as a high-impact sporting and entertainment property, combining elite-level cricket with global broadcast reach and premium fan engagement.

AGRIBUSINESS | H.E Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI recently met with Mr. Wim COOMANS, an investor in Namibia’s beef sector, to discuss opportunities within Namibia’s beef value chain. The discussion focused on efforts to create greater value for Namibian farmers, while exploring opportunities to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of the sector through expertise and collaboration with the Belgian agricultural sector.

H.E Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI had the pleasure of welcoming H.E. Dr. Carolina OLARTE-BÁCARES, Ambassador of Colombia to the Netherlands and The Hague-based Institutions, to the Embassy of Namibia for a courtesy visit. Amb. OLARTE-BÁCARES shared her vision for the International Criminal Court (ICC) as a candidate for the position of Judge of the ICC for the year 2027–2036. Amb. HENGARI appreciated the opportunity to exchange views on matters of international justice and cooperation and wish her every success in her candidacy.

Africa–Europe Relations: The African Group in Brussels, held a fruitful exchange with H.E. Vice-President of the European Commission and High Representative for Foreign Policy, on key matters shaping the Africa-Europe partnership, including investment cooperation, restrictive trade practices, migration, multilateralism and security. During the engagement, H.E Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI emphasized the importance of a strong, enduring Africa-Europe partnership grounded in equality, with adequate time and resources dedicated to meaningful dialogue and mutually beneficial engagement. @eucommission

On 3 June 2026, H.E. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI met with Mr. Richard GUEZ of Deep Atmos to discuss bush encroachment and carbon sequestration in Namibia. Discussions centered on bush encroachment and its growing impact on ecosystems, agricultural productivity, and climate. Ambassador HENGARI welcomed the initiative and potential pilot area for de-bushing interventions, reflecting a shared interest in targeted, practical solutions on the ground. The meeting also highlighted the broader biosecurity implications of bush encroachment, including its potential to increase disease risks affecting livestock systems, underscoring the importance of integrated environmental and agricultural action moving forward.

Today, H.E. Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI held constructive discussions with Rear Admiral (Ret) Jan de Beurme, Chief of Staff of CMB-Tech to review progress across their ongoing operations in Namibia. The meeting placed emphasis on CMB Tech’s expanding footprint in the country, including its role in advancing sustainable energy solutions, supporting the development of green ammonia, hydrogen-based mobility and rail innovation. Ambassador Hengari commended CMB-Tech for its commitment to invest in Namibia’s green industries. He further underscored the importance of strengthening Namibia’s industrial base, support for skills development and agricultural projects as CMB Tech continues to deepen its investments in Namibia for a win-win partnership.

Message by Her Excellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia on the Occasion of Genocide Remembrance Day 28 May 2026 As Namibians commemorate Genocide Remembrance Day today, we pause to reflect on one of the darkest chapters in our nation’s history and honour the memory of the thousands of innocent Ovaherero and Nama lives lost during the 1904–1908 Genocide. We also honour the courage and resistance of those who stood against colonial oppression and injustice at a time when the survival and dignity of our people were under attack. The events of that period were not isolated from the broader story of our nation. They formed part of the foundation upon which the spirit of resistance and national consciousness was built, ultimately inspiring future generations in the long struggle for freedom and independence. Genocide Remembrance Day is therefore not only important for the affected Ovaherero and Nama communities, but for all Namibians. It is a national day of remembrance, reflection, and learning, particularly for the younger generation, who must continue to understand the painful history that shaped our country and the sacrifices that were made for the Namibia we know today. Above all, this day should serve as a moment for us as Namibians to set aside our differences and pay homage to those who suffered and perished during this painful period of our history. Their sacrifice and resistance became part of the foundation upon which our nation was built. As such, this occasion must continue to unite us around our shared history, shared humanity, and shared responsibility to preserve the truth of what transpired. As communities across various regions host commemorative events and activities, I encourage Namibians to participate in these engagements in a spirit of respect, unity, reflection, and national solidarity. While we remain cognizant of the sensitivity surrounding this painful chapter in our history, we must also recognize that every Namibian has the right to honour and pay tribute to those who perished during the Genocide. Their memory and sacrifice form part of our collective national heritage and consciousness. The pain and impact of the Genocide continue to be felt generations later. As a nation, we therefore remain committed to ensuring that the atrocities committed against the Ovaherero and Nama people receive the same recognition, historical acknowledgement, and moral attention accorded to genocides and crimes against humanity committed elsewhere in the world. In doing so, we reaffirm the importance of historical truth, justice, healing, and reparations as part of the broader process of reconciliation and closure. Hence, our Government, together with the affected communities, will continue to engage the Federal Republic of Germany until the matter of the Genocide, apology, and reparations is brought to a just and meaningful conclusion. As a nation, we must continue to protect and preserve our history. We must tell our own stories, document our experiences, and ensure that future generations never lose sight of the suffering, resilience, and sacrifice of those who came before us. May Genocide Remembrance Day continue to strengthen our collective commitment to peace, unity, human dignity, and nation-building.

Celebrating Africa Day 2026 Namibia joined fellow African Embassies, members of the African diaspora, and friends of the continent in Brussels to celebrate Africa Day 2026 under the spirit of African unity, culture, and cooperation. The day began with a seminar reflecting on the African Union’s 2026 theme focused on sustainable access to water and safe sanitation systems in support of Agenda 2063, bringing together diplomats, experts, and stakeholders for meaningful dialogue on Africa’s shared development priorities. The evening celebration showcased the richness and diversity of African culture through music, traditional attire, and the aromas of dishes from across the continent. Namibia proudly shared a taste of home with biltong, Namibian beer, locally crafted leather products from Shilongo Leather Works Namibia and Namibian gin, reflecting the country’s heritage, excellence and cultural identity.

Water Diplomacy for Effective Continental Water Systems: In celebration of 25 May, Africa Day, H.E Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI joined the Group of African Ambassadors in Brussels (GAAB) in a seminar on the Umoja wa Afrika (African Union) theme for the year 2026, “Ensuring sustainable availability to water and safe sanitation systems to achieve the goals of Agenda 2063”. As a water stressed country, H.E. Dr. HENGARI reinforced Namibia’s water diplomacy and water policies that emphasize extending potable water access to rural communities, wastewater reclamation, the drilling of boreholes, building new desalination plants for water intensive sectors, harvesting rainwater, community empowerment in water conservation and transboundary cooperation.

Green Industries Diplomacy: Today, the Director General of the National Planning Commission, Hon. Kaire Mbuende, and H.E. Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI concluded site visits to Enertrag energy facilities in Dauerthal and Ostweddingen, eastern Germany. The transition to renewable energy and decarbonisation demands innovative solutions for energy production. With its exceptional solar and wind resources, Namibia is well positioned to lead in green hydrogen and green ammonia technologies. Our engagements with business leaders and senior executives from Enertrag and Hyphen reaffirmed one key message: Namibia is an ideal destination for large scale renewable energy projects. We are moving from ambition to implementation.

On the final day of the World Hydrogen Summit in Rotterdam, Netherlands, The Director General of the National Planning Commission, Amb. Dr. Kaire Mbuende, reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to green hydrogen as a key pillar of the country’s development agenda and a new frontier for economic growth. Speaking during the Spotlight Session: Namibia Hydrogen Developments, Ambassador Mbuende highlighted Namibia’s ambition to create 30,000 green jobs by 2030, strengthen domestic productive capacity, and contribute to global decarbonisation efforts. He further reaffirmed that Namibia is ready for strategic partnerships in the production of green molecules and positioning the country as a future hub for low-carbon industry in Southern Africa. Ambassador Mbuende also toured the exhibition hall, accompanied by H.E. Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo Hengari, where they engaged with exhibitors and stakeholders showcasing the latest developments and innovations in the global hydrogen sector.

Day 2 of the World Hydrogen Summit & Exhibition saw the Namibian delegation engage in strategic meetings, investor discussions, and conversations on financing opportunities for green hydrogen projects, with the highlight of the day being the visit to the Port of Rotterdam. The visit provided valuable insight into the infrastructure and logistics supporting the production, storage, and transportation of green energy products, including ammonia, iron, and other hydrogen derivatives. Namibia remains committed to advancing its Green Hydrogen Initiative through continued collaboration with partners, stakeholders, and the private sector.

H.E Dr. Alfredo Tjiurimo HENGARI joined Amb.Dr. Kaire MBUENDE, Director General of the National Planning Commission at the World Hydrogen Summit & Exhibition in Rotterdam (19-21 May 2026), where they will be engaging in strategic discussions and highlighting Namibia’s progress in the green hydrogen sector. Namibia’s participation at the summit reflects the country’s commitment to advancing green hydrogen as one of the key driver of economic growth, skills development, and job creation, while strengthening global partnerships and investment opportunities.

🇳🇦🇪🇺 Recap: 2nd Namibia–EU Business Forum, 11–13 May 2026 The 2nd Namibia–EU Business Forum, held in Windhoek from 11–13 May 2026, brought together more than 400 participants for three days of high-level dialogue and engagement under the theme “Towards Stronger, Greener and More Diversified Economies.” Discussions focused on critical raw materials, renewable hydrogen, creative industries, agribusiness, automotive, and logistics, reinforcing shared priorities for sustainable industrial development, trade, and investment cooperation. A key milestone of the Forum was the signing and renewal of the Namibia-EU Roadmap, alongside commitments to deepen cooperation in green industrialisation, value addition, and strategic sectors driving long-term economic transformation and partnership.