National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula has advocated for the establishment of a Kenya-Namibia Parliamentary Friendship Group (PFG) to enhance diplomatic relations between the two countries.

In his address, delivered by Hon. Peter Kaluma, a member of the Speaker's Panel, during the welcome of Dr. George Simataa, the Secretary to the Cabinet of the Republic of Namibia, and his delegation to Parliament Buildings on Friday, Hon. Wetang’ula emphasized that the formation of such a group would foster inter-parliamentary exchanges, strengthen capacity building, and deepen collaboration on shared development priorities.

Speaker Wetang’ula highlighted the valuable opportunity for legislators from both countries to exchange constructive ideas and build partnerships that promote mutual development.

“Namibia and Kenya share a long history of cordial relations dating back to 1964. This visit marks the ongoing strengthening of our ties through parliamentary diplomacy and bilateral cooperation, ultimately benefiting the citizens of both nations,” he said.

Hon. Kaluma also underscored the importance of knowledge exchange between Kenya and Namibia, particularly in sectors such as agriculture and trade.

“There is significant potential to boost trade between our two nations, especially through the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the COMESA-EAC-SADC Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) agreements,” Hon. Kaluma noted.

He further expressed concern about the absence of a Namibian Embassy in Kenya.

“Kenya maintains a resident diplomatic mission in Windhoek, while Namibia’s mission in Dar-es-Salaam is accredited to Kenya. Kenya has formally requested Namibia to consider establishing a resident diplomatic mission in Nairobi,” he said.

Hon. Kaluma added that such a mission would greatly streamline visa processing and enhance diplomatic engagements, making interactions between the two nations more efficient.

He also emphasized the positive trajectory of trade relations between Kenya and Namibia and the potential for further growth, especially with the full implementation of the AfCFTA and TFTA agreements.

Hon. Gabriel Tongoyo, Chairperson of the Committee on Administration and Internal Security, highlighted the importance of harmonizing friendly treaties to further foster collaboration between the countries.

Hon. Maj. (Rtd.) Bashir Abdullahi, Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, expressed confidence in Africa’s potential for growth.

“Africa has the capacity to thrive both in tourism and in its economy. Thus, fostering Africa-to-Africa trade relations is critical,” Hon. Bashir remarked.

Hon. Brighton Yegon, Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture & Livestock, encouraged further cooperation between Kenya and Namibia on agricultural markets, specifically in products such as maize and sorghum.

Hon. Wanjiku Muhia, from the Committee on Regional Integration, emphasized the importance of the free movement of people and goods across the continent, suggesting that trade should also extend to labor and education.

The Namibian delegation had the opportunity to tour several parliamentary facilities, including the National Assembly Main Chamber, the Parliamentary Broadcasting Unit (PBU), the Main Library, and Committee Rooms.