China has committed ¥98 million (about US$14.4m) towards Namibia's Smart City pilot project, with the funding set to support the country's digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and skills development under a decade-long modernisation programme.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who is on a week-long state visit to China, acknowledged the contribution during a meeting with technology company Huawei at its headquarters and exhibition centre in Shenzhen.
The funding will support innovation, industrialisation and skills development as part of Namibia's Smart City initiative, which aims to strengthen digital public services and build the country's AI and digital infrastructure.
The meeting also focused on expanding cooperation in AI, digital inclusion and workforce development.
The contribution follows the signing of the Smart City arrangement at the end of June. While the agreement had already been concluded, the meeting provided an opportunity for Nandi-Ndaitwah to acknowledge China's financial support publicly.
The project forms part of the Windhoek People-Centred Smart City Strategy (2026-2036), which aims to improve municipal services through digital technologies, including smarter public infrastructure, digital government services, data-driven urban planning and enhanced public safety.
The strategy also seeks to strengthen the city's digital economy while improving service delivery for residents and businesses.
The development programme spans 10 years, running to 2036.
During the meeting, Nandi-Ndaitwah commended Huawei's collaboration with Namibia's Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security and the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology on smart city solutions and an AI-ready national data centre.
She said Namibia remained committed to building a secure, inclusive and knowledge-based economy that strengthens public services, boosts investor and tourist confidence, and supports sustainable development under the National Development Plan.
"In partnership with Huawei, Namibia is championing digital inclusion while preparing its workforce to thrive amid AI-driven market shifts," she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said the partnership will focus on creating employment opportunities and equipping Namibians with digital skills.
Leo Chen, senior vice president, sales, Huawei Enterprise, says Namibia's development goals align with Huawei's expertise in AI, cloud technologies and digital infrastructure.
He said Huawei is committed to supporting Namibia's digital economy ambitions, safeguarding data sovereignty and enabling smarter governance through tailored solutions.
The meeting forms part of Nandi-Ndaitwah's week-long state visit to China, which is focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in technology, trade and infrastructure.
Share
