In a significant step toward strengthening African maritime collaboration, the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) and the Namibian Ports Authority have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in key maritime fields. The agreement reflects Egypt’s growing outreach to African markets and Namibia’s ambition to modernise and expand its port infrastructure through strategic partnerships.
Expanding Maritime Cooperation and Market Presence
The MoU was signed at the SCA headquarters in Ismailia by senior officials from both sides, including Adm. Ossama Rabiee, Chairman and Managing Director of the Suez Canal Authority, and Mrs. Nangula Hamunyela, Chairperson of the Namibian Ports Authority. The agreement focuses on exchanging expertise and promoting cooperation in maritime construction, sales and chartering of marine units, and advanced maritime training through SCA’s training and simulation academies.
Adm. Rabiee highlighted the Authority’s readiness to commence effective cooperation, noting that the agreement aligns with SCA’s strategy to expand internationally and deepen engagement with the African continent. He pointed to the successful development and reopening of Libya’s Port of Sirye after a 14-year closure as a model for future overseas projects. The SCA also committed to facilitating all necessary procedures to ensure smooth implementation of joint initiatives, leveraging its integrated system of shipyards and maritime service companies.
Supporting Namibia’s Port Development and Capacity Building
Mrs. Hamunyela emphasized Namibia’s interest in working closely with the Suez Canal Authority to implement its ambitious port development plans. She described the cooperation as a reflection of strong Egyptian-Namibian relations and a catalyst for enhancing bilateral ties. The MoU, she noted, opens opportunities for collaboration in maritime manufacturing, construction, and training.
She further highlighted that SCA’s advanced technology and extensive experience would help accelerate port development in Namibia, reduce reliance on foreign expertise from outside the continent, and support effective technology transfer. As part of the visit, the Namibian delegation toured SCA-affiliated shipyards, maritime units, the Floating Pontoons and Concrete Buoys Factory, and the Maritime Training and Simulation Academy, gaining firsthand insight into the Authority’s capabilities.
The signing of the MoU marks an important milestone in African maritime cooperation, reinforcing Egypt’s role as a regional maritime leader and Namibia’s drive to modernise its port infrastructure. By combining technical expertise, training, and shared development goals, the partnership is expected to deliver long-term benefits, strengthen regional integration, and support sustainable maritime growth across the African continent.
