Key Points
- Namibia is considering joining the UN space treaty.
- Partnerships target space, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism.
- New laws support anti-terrorism and financial crime efforts.
Namibia is exploring deeper ties with Russia and other African nations to advance its space exploration goals and bolster international security efforts.
The initiative, which includes potential membership in the United Nations’ space treaty, aligns with the country’s broader objectives of fostering peaceful cooperation in space, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism.
Space exploration and cybersecurity collaboration
At the inaugural Russia-Africa Partnership Forum in Sochi, Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Peya Mushelenga, announced the country’s active consideration of joining the UN’s Treaty on the Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space.
The treaty, according to the Namibian, includes provisions on the Moon and other celestial bodies, and is central to Namibia’s space ambitions. Mushelenga emphasized that Namibia’s 2021 space policy is in line with the treaty’s principles, marking the nation’s commitment to peaceful and responsible space exploration.
“We seek collaboration with both African nations and Russia on space initiatives,” he stated. Beyond space exploration, Namibia is also focused on tackling the rising threat of cybercrime. Mushelenga highlighted the country’s ongoing negotiations within the UN to establish a global convention on cybercrime.
This initiative complements the African Union’s Convention on Cybersecurity and Personal Data Protection and provides an avenue for increased cooperation between Russia and African nations to combat cybersecurity challenges.
Strengthening national and global security
Namibia’s security agenda extends beyond space and cyberspace, with significant efforts aimed at tackling financial crime and terrorism.
The country has joined the Eastern and Southern African Anti-Money Laundering Group to reinforce its fight against financial illicit activities. “We are unwavering in our condemnation of terrorism, particularly in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo,” Mushelenga affirmed.
He emphasized Namibia’s commitment to global security through its collaboration with Russia and fellow African states via the African Peace and Security Architecture. At home, Namibia has enacted critical laws such as the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (2004) and the Prevention and Combating of Terrorist and Proliferation Activities Act (2014), to align with international frameworks in the fight against terrorism.
Mushelenga reiterated the urgency of addressing violent extremism, which threatens both national stability and global peace. Namibia’s expanding partnership with Russia, combined with its focus on space, cybersecurity, and security cooperation, signals the country’s growing role in addressing key global challenges.
