Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba began a five-day state visit to Cuba on December 14, 2024, aimed at enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations. The visit comes as both nations aim to further their longstanding relationship, which traces back to Namibia’s independence struggle, when Cuba played a crucial role by supporting Namibia’s SWAPO liberation movement.
Invited by Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, the visit focuses on deepening economic cooperation, expanding South-South partnerships, and fostering stronger business and economic links. During the trip, President Mbumba is scheduled to meet with Díaz-Canel to discuss ways to scale up bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
Since Namibia’s independence, the two countries have maintained close diplomatic relations, with Cuba continuing to assist in areas such as healthcare, education, and other key sectors. Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed between Namibia and Cuba, with the most recent agreements signed during Cuban President Díaz-Canel’s visit to Namibia in August 2023.
The two nations currently cooperate in health, education, defense, tourism, environmental management, and fisheries. President Mbumba is set to return to Namibia on December 18.