Physical trade infrastructure - Germany

Namibia’s declared intention is to become a Logistic Hub for the Southern African Region, the main harbour at Walfis Bay with its international container and general cargo terminal being its center. Walvis Bay forms a key node to global trade for three important transport corridors that connect Namibia and the port with the neighboring states of Angola, Botswana, Zambia and South Africa. An efficient transport infrastructure is an indispensable prerequisite for economic growth, high transport costs, on the other hand, hamper regional cooperation and participation in globalization. Only through transport infrastructures such as seaports and airports, efficient roads and railroads can a country trade with neighbours and the world and diversify its economy in the first place. KfW supports Namibia with loans focusing on rehabilitation and extension of those central transport corridors. A first loan was used to finance the extension of the Windhoek-Okahandja road, which forms part of the north-bound corridor leading to the Walfis Bay, Angola, and Zambia. A second loan is planned for 2017 and shall finance the extension of the Mariental-Ketmanshoop road, part of the south-bound corridor to South Africa. Further cooperation in this regard is foreseen.