Windhoek: Namibia is strategizing to enhance its beef export footprint across the African continent, according to Executive Director of the Ministry of International Relations and Trade, Penda Naanda. Naanda revealed that the ministry is preparing a comprehensive plan to facilitate the expansion of Namibian beef exports to several African countries.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Naanda announced this initiative during the ministry's strategic planning workshop in Windhoek. He highlighted Namibia's unique position as the only African country exporting beef to both China and the United States, and expressed a desire to extend these efforts further within Africa. Over the past two years, Namibia has successfully exported beef to the West African market through Ghana.

Naanda emphasized the potential benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement in fostering intra-African trade. He expressed a vision of reinforcing trade relations within the continent, noting that Namibia is already engaged with markets in the European Union and aims to extend its reach to neighboring African nations.

The ministry has identified Angola, Zambia, Nigeria, and Congo among the target countries for strengthening trade ties. "The mandate of the ministry has expanded," Naanda stated, underscoring the importance of developing a guiding document for the next five years to support the ministry's expanded focus on trade and investment.

Naanda concluded by stressing the importance of internal development and intra-continental trade, aiming to enhance Namibia's economic growth through increased African collaboration.