Media reports Namibia showing interest in nuclear collaboration with Russia

(MENAFN) Namibia views Russia as a reliable partner and is interested in collaborating in various sectors, including nuclear energy, according to Frednard Gideon, Vice Chancellor of the University of Namibia (UNAM). His remarks were reported by the African Initiative news agency during the ‘Russia-Africa: Nuclear Education—Potential for Successful Regional Development’ forum, held on Friday at Peoples’ Friendship University (RUDN) in Moscow.

As the world’s fourth-largest uranium producer, Namibia has been mining the resource since 1976. However, Gideon noted that uranium is currently extracted and exported without domestic processing. “Many foreigners come to Africa and take everything,” he said, emphasizing Namibia’s desire for a more balanced partnership with Russia.

Diplomatic ties between Namibia and Russia were established on March 21, 1990, and have since expanded across political, economic, trade, and humanitarian sectors. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov previously stated that both nations are working to enhance trade and investment in key industries, including mineral resources, energy, agriculture, tourism, and healthcare.

Last November, Namibian Foreign Minister Peya Mushelenga revealed that a joint technical team had been formed to explore geophysics and geochemistry for potential mineral discoveries.

Russia’s influence in Africa has been growing in recent years, with many nations considering Moscow a trustworthy partner, despite criticism from Western governments accusing Russia of pursuing exploitative policies on the continent.

On February 19, Russia announced an agreement with Ethiopia to collaborate on nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.

Speaking at the Moscow forum, South African lawyer Nkazimulo Moyeni defended nuclear energy, stressing that it should not be stigmatized. “Nuclear energy is not just a weapon; it is a tool for peaceful development that can save lives and improve living standards across Africa,” he said.

The event, organized by RUDN and Russian nuclear corporation Rosatom, has been held annually since 2020 to promote nuclear education and foster trust in nuclear technology among partner countries.

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