Suez Canal, Namibian Ports Authority Sign Cooperation MoU

Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority (SCA), on Wednesday witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Namibian Ports Authority, marking a new step in Egypt’s expanding economic and maritime engagement with the African continent.

The MoU aims to enhance bilateral cooperation and exchange expertise in areas of mutual interest, most notably marine construction works, the sale and chartering of maritime units, and advanced maritime training. Training programs will be delivered through the SCA’s specialized maritime training and simulation academies, which are among the most advanced in the region.

The agreement was signed at the SCA’s headquarters in Ismailia by Nashaat Nasr El-Din, Director of the Movement Department at the Suez Canal Authority, and Andreas Kanime, Chief Executive Officer of the Namibian Ports Authority. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Rabie affirmed the Suez Canal Authority’s full readiness to engage in “productive and constructive cooperation” with the Namibian Ports Authority. He noted that the agreement aligns with the Authority’s strategy to expand its external projects portfolio, open new markets, and strengthen its presence across Africa.

Rabie highlighted the SCA’s recent success in developing and reopening Libya’s Sirte Port after 14 years of closure, describing it as a milestone and a successful model for future external projects with friendly and brotherly nations. He stressed that the Authority possesses an integrated system of maritime and logistical services, supported by its shipyards and affiliated companies, enabling it to efficiently execute diverse international projects.

The SCA chairman also directed relevant departments to provide full support and streamline procedures to ensure the swift launch of joint projects under the MoU.

On her part, Nangula Hamunyela, Chairperson of the Namibian Ports Authority, expressed her aspiration to cooperate with the Suez Canal Authority in implementing Namibia’s ambitious port development plan. She noted that Namibia’s ports are among the largest in West Africa and play a pivotal role in regional trade and logistics.

Hamunyela emphasized that the MoU reflects the strength of relations between Egypt and Namibia and is expected to further enhance bilateral cooperation. She praised the diversity and depth of the SCA’s capabilities in maritime manufacturing, marine construction, and professional training.

She also underlined that the SCA’s advanced technologies and accumulated expertise would contribute significantly to accelerating development efforts at Namibian ports, reducing reliance on foreign expertise from outside the African continent and supporting the transfer of technology within Africa.

The visit included a tour of several maritime units produced by SCA-affiliated shipyards and companies, an inspection of the floating pontoon and concrete buoy factory operated by the Canal Company for Ports and Major Projects, as well as a visit to the SCA’s Maritime Training and Simulation Academy.