Namibia and Korea launch 10-year green port plan

Namibia and the Republic of Korea yesterday formally launched a 10-year master plan to modernise the country’s ports, with a focus on sustainability, environmental responsibility, and operational efficiency.

The agreement, under the Namibia–Korea Green Port Strategy Programme, was signed by Namport Chief Executive Officer Andrew Kanime and Korea’s Assistant Director for Port Investment Cooperation, Lim Ching Hwan. The signing sets the stage for a decade-long transformation of the Walvis Bay and Lüderitz ports.

“This marks a defining moment in the evolution of Namibia’s maritime sector,” Kanime said. “Our ports of the future must be custodians of the environment, hubs of innovation, and catalysts for inclusive economic growth.”

Kanime said the initiative builds on Namport’s 2022 decision to transition its ports into fully fledged green, future-proof facilities. The programme will guide the development of three core instruments: a comprehensive Green Port Policy, a Green Port Investment Plan, and a Green Port Implementation Roadmap.

These tools are intended to steer infrastructure expansion, reduce emissions through low- and zero-carbon fuels, improve air and water quality, and reinforce climate resilience. Kanime said the strategy will also protect sensitive coastal ecosystems, including the Walvis Bay Lagoon.

Lim Ching Hwan, representing Korea, said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to decarbonisation, eco-friendly port operations, and automation-based efficiency. He said Korea’s experience in developing smart ports, implementing onshore power supply, and applying green technologies would provide key support for Namibia’s transition.

Kanime said the initiative aligns with Namibia’s long-term development plans, Africa Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. “With this partnership, our ports will become greener, cleaner, safer, more competitive, and more responsible,” he said.

The programme also signals opportunities for cooperation in shipping, logistics, energy, and smart technologies. Funding and technical support from Korea and the African Development Bank will be utilised to ensure that commitments translate into measurable, long-term impact, positioning Namibia at the forefront of Africa’s green maritime transition, Kanime said.