China Tightens Its Grip on Namibia's Next Energy Boom

AI Summary

China and Namibia signed eight cooperation agreements during a state visit in Beijing, focusing on energy, critical minerals, infrastructure, agriculture, and economic development. China aims to secure early involvement in Namibia's emerging energy sector as Namibia's government seeks to diversify its economy.

China isn't waiting for Namibia to become an oil producer. It's getting in early. During a state visit to Beijing this week, Namibia and China signed eight cooperation agreements covering energy, critical minerals, infrastructure, agriculture, and economic development, as China attempts to secure a front-row seat to what could become Africa's next major energy story. Namibia's first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, spent the week courting investment as her government looks to diversify an economy still grappling with high unemployment.…