Namibia has signed an agreement with the Global Water Partnership Organisation (GWPO), officially establishing the organisation's secretariat in Windhoek.
The hosting of the secretariat will strengthen the role of Namibia as a strategic platform for the preparation, structuring and mobilisation of large-scale water and climate resilience.
Signing the agreement, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform Minister described the move as a decisive step forward and reflects confidence in Africa's capacity to lead, convene and deliver on one of the most pressing development challenges.
Inge Zaamwani says the secretariat will help translate political commitments into bankable investments as the world approaches the 2026 United Nations Water Conference and assured the GWP of an enabling environment.
"Our hosting of the global headquarters of a group of water partnerships is not just a Namibian milestone; it is a SADC milestone. Namibia is one of the driest countries you have heard of, and you have seen for yourself in the video in Sub-Saharan Africa. Water scarcity is not an abstract concept for us. It is our lived reality."
Zaamwani emphasised that because of this reality, Namibia has long understood that water is a foundation for economic growth, human dignity, peace and resilience.
"It is this understanding that has guided us in sustained engagement in integrated water resource management climate and adaptation."
Speaking on behalf of the Global Water Partnership Chair, the board executive Jaehyang So says impacts on climate change have threatened water security.
"Namibia's own journey in water security is well known. And its knowledge base, the lessons learned and challenges will be a great source of knowledge for all of the GWP members."
The Global Water Partnership Regional Chair of Chairs, Abdoulaye Sene, has also noted that in the current global context, only a large-scale solidarity and positive partnership can effectively manage the major water challenges, particularly in Africa.
Namibia is considered a hub for water investment and cooperation, supporting the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) and Africa's Water Vision.