Namibia gifts land to Zambia in Walvis Bay Port for construction of a dry port.

Namibia has given Zambia a piece of land near the Walvis Bay Port for free. This land will be used to build a dry port where goods can be stored and moved, making it easier and cheaper for Zambia to trade through the Atlantic Ocean. The gift was confirmed during President Hakainde Hichilema’s meeting with Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in Lusaka, during her visit.

Both leaders say they want to work closely together to boost trade, grow business, and improve transport between the two countries. They also agreed to invest in shared infrastructure like roads, railways, energy and pipelines. This will help speed up trade and support local industries. Border areas like Sesheke were mentioned as needing better facilities to handle cargo more smoothly.

Zambia, which has no coastline, relies heavily on neighbouring countries to move imports and exports. The dry port of Walvis Bay is expected to improve efficiency, reduce transport costs and ease pressure on other routes.

The land is part of Namibia’s promise to help landlocked African countries access the sea. Zambia says the support will help grow the economy, create jobs, and bring development closer to the people.

The two presidents also agreed to review outdated laws and agreements that may be slowing down progress, and to focus on practical steps to reduce Africa’s dependence on imports from outside the continent.

The Zambian government says this partnership demonstrates Zambia’s vision of becoming a land-linked country, instead of landlocked.

[Henry Kapata - Director Spokesperson, Ministry of Information]