As Guyana and the Republic of Namibia work to strengthen their bilateral ties, the two countries hope to corporate in the areas of education, the economy and the environment.
Accepting letters of credence on Wednesday from the High Commissioner of Namibia to Guyana, Neville Gertze, President David Granger said that many opportunities exist for the two countries to advance similar objectives.

Guyana and Namibia have maintained cordial bilateral ties since the establishment of diplomatic relations on November 13, 1994.

One year later, when former Namibian President, Sam Nujoma visited Guyana, the bond between the two countries were further solidified.

They share similarities such as being members of the Non-Aligned Movement and members of the Commonwealth while Guyana has supported Namibia’s Independence during the struggle for the liberation of Southern Africa.

In his remarks to the diplomat, the President turned his attention to Southern Africa which he noted is experiencing one of the worst droughts in decades, with more than 40 million people expected to face food insecurity.

This, he said, is due to losses as a result of diminished rainfall and long-term increases in temperatures and the region’s reliance on agriculture makes it highly susceptible to impacts of droughts.

“Namibia has been affected by the droughts of Southern Africa which have threatened the livelihood of over half a million of its people. The harmful effects of climate change continue to affect the human population negatively. Vulnerable countries such as ours should collaborate to develop climate adaptation measures to ensure sustained development,” the President said.

He noted that Guyana is moving towards the establishment of a “green state” which will see emphasis being placed on the protection of the environment, the preservation of its biodiversity, the promotion of renewable energy and the adoption of practical measures to ensure climate adaptation.

He assured the High Commissioner of his government’s full support in the discharging of his duties and sent well wishes to President of Namibia, Hage Geingob.

In his remarks to the President, High Commissioner Gertze acknowledged that for many months now Namibia has been facing acute food insecurity due to drought.

In a country where agriculture is the main source of livelihood, Gertze said that the effects have been devastating. He told the President that Guyana may be in a good position to share its mitigation and food production expertise.

Namibia is also interested in cooperating with Guyana in the area of mining, education, science and technology, tourism and hospitality, fisheries and agriculture.

“Namibia attaches great importance to the cordial relations that exist between our two countries which is not a relationship of convenience but one that is based on the firm foundation of brotherhood and of Guyana’s unwavering support and solidarity to Namibian cause for national liberation,” he said.

He also wished the country success in the ongoing celebration of its 50th anniversary as a republic as well as continued progress and prosperity.