In a bid to advance industrialisation while ensuring the safety and security of the continent, Namibia has emphasised the value of collaboration with Africa and the global community. 

This commitment was highlighted by Minister of Industrialization and Trade, Lucia Iipumbu, during the opening of the “Integrated Advanced Course and Exercise on Assistance and Protection against Chemical Weapons for Anglophone States Parties” workshop in Windhoek.

The course that started in 2023 aims to refresh participants’ knowledge acquired in preceding basic-level training and expand it to include more comprehensive chemical emergency functions. 

Speaking at the workshop, Minister Iipumbu underscored Namibia’s commitment to industrialization, which prioritises safety and security. 

She emphasised the importance of practical solutions that support industrialization without compromising the security of the continent. 

Minister Iipumbu also highlighted Namibia’s collaboration with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), noting the valuable expertise and support it brings to the workshop.

“From a Namibian perspective, we are talking about green industrialization and green hydrogen. With this agenda, we have many opportunities that we can leverage. As we are working together with our brothers and sisters, let us create standards.”

Babatunde Olowookere, the OPCW Africa representative, emphasised the need for preparedness for a safer Africa. 

His remarks underscored the importance of proactive measures to prevent and respond to chemical hazards, ensuring that industrialization occurs in a safe and sustainable manner across the continent. 

“Together, we are not just building capability; we are fostering a safe, fair, and more secure sector for our regional community and, to a greater extent, the African continent.

The workshop represents a significant step towards enhancing chemical safety preparedness in African countries as they aspire to industrialise.