By: Fatou Krubally
Namibia has strengthened diplomatic and economic ties with The Gambia with the commissioning of its first Honorary Consulate in Banjul.
The move is aimed at expanding trade, investment, and bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
The consulate was inaugurated last week during celebrations marking Namibia’s 36th Independence Anniversary at Coco Ocean Resort and Spa, bringing together government officials, diplomats, and members of the business community.
Speaking at the ceremony, Namibia’s High Commissioner to The Gambia, Stanley R. Tsandib, described the development as a historic milestone, noting that it was the first time Namibia’s Independence Day had been officially commemorated in The Gambia.
He said the establishment of the honorary consulate reflected Namibia’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people relations with The Gambia.
Tsandib recalled Namibia’s liberation history and expressed appreciation for The Gambia’s support during the struggle for independence, including political solidarity and educational assistance. He noted that several Namibians who studied in The Gambia now hold senior positions in government, academia, and the private sector.
He identified key sectors for future cooperation, including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, renewable energy, education, digital innovation, and the creative industries.
According to him, the appointment of businessman Ken Johm as Namibia’s first Honorary Consul in The Gambia is intended to advance economic cooperation, facilitate trade and investment, and strengthen cultural and consular relations between the two countries.
Delivering the keynote address, Foreign Affairs Minister Serigne Modou Njie congratulated Namibia on its independence anniversary and praised the country’s liberation history and resilience.
He says relations between The Gambia and Namibia are grounded in shared African solidarity and historical cooperation, particularly in education and capacity building.
The minister welcomed the establishment of the honorary consulate, describing it as an important step toward deepening cooperation in trade, tourism, and investment, and strengthening bilateral relations between Banjul and Windhoek.
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