Drought and other climate-related challenges continue to leave countries such as Namibia vulnerable.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for the implementation of the Namib Declaration, adopted during COP11 in 2013, alongside increased investment to close Africa's water infrastructure gap and strengthen resilience to climate change.
Speaking during the first plenary session of the Russia-Africa summit, Dr Nandi-Ndaitwah called for stronger cooperation with Russia in agricultural development through modern technologies, innovation and improved market access to enhance food security and contribute to African economies.
The head of state noted that Russia and Africa should strengthen collaboration to address climate change, expand trade and reform global governance, stressing that partnerships must deliver tangible benefits to ordinary people.
"It must be underscored that agriculture remains a mainstay of many African economies and an important component and contributor to the national GDP, food security, employment and rural livelihood. And this is one sector."
On trade, the President noted that Russia-Africa trade reached $27 billion in 2025, expressing Namibia's desire to see the figure increase in ways that benefit both sides.
Addressing international peace and security, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the global environment is increasingly challenging, pointing out the importance of collective efforts to preserve an international order that is more representative and equitable.
She expressed Namibia's appreciation for Russia's support, particularly the African common position on the reform of the United Nations Security Council, further calling for the reform of the international financial architecture.
"It is imperative that we reaffirm our collective commitment to forging a partnership that fosters a peaceful, secure and prosperous world, an inclusive international system that gives all nations a meaningful voice in the global decision-making and ensures that international governance structures reflect today's geopolitical and economic realities, a system that recognises peaceful coexistence among nations and people's right to self-determination, peace, security and sustainable development are one."
Namibia, she further said, will continue working with Russia and other African nations to strengthen multilateralism, promote the peaceful resolution of disputes, respect national sovereignty and ensure that development opportunities are shared inclusively.
On trade matters, Dr Nandi-Ndaitwah noted that Russia-Africa trade reached $27 billion in 2025, saying Namibia wants to see trade grow through joint ventures, skills transfer and partnerships that create jobs and improve livelihoods.