The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Trade, Jennely Matundu, has asserted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) should not be held responsible for the illicit weapons trade. 

Matundu clarified that the agreement's purpose is solely to facilitate border management and ensure a smooth clearance process.

Matundu was responding to IPC MP Rodney Cloete, who raised concerns regarding firearms being trafficked into southern Africa for criminal activity.

"This ministry is neither responsible for border control nor for transnational organised crime. The question has therefore been misdirected for the most part. I agree with you that the smuggling of firearms poses serious concerns and needs to be addressed. Trade between Namibia and South Africa is governed by the 2002 Southern African Customs Union Agreement," Matundu said.

Cloete also sought clarity on the vacant ambassadorial positions.

In response, Matundu stated, "There are no vacant ambassadorial posts at most of our missions abroad, except for our mission in Germany. The Head of State and Government has yet to commission the new head of mission for that position. This vacancy has arisen due to the reassignment of Ambassador Jerobeam Shaanika, who has been appointed as the Executive Director of the Ministry at the headquarters."