A new harbour at Cape Fria could open an exciting chapter in Namibia's economic development. Beyond transforming the country's northern coastline, the proposed project carries hopes of positioning Kunene as a logistics, tourism and investment hub, with the possibility of a modern smart city. 

Kunene Governor Vipuakuje Muharukua shared the vision of a future anchored in opportunity and prosperity.

The Governor says Cape Fria represents an opportunity for Namibia to make history by developing a new harbour in the post-Independence era.

"Here where we are standing is Angra Fia, Cape Fia. This is the place on the Namib Namibia coast that is mooted to be the next harbour that we as Namibians in an independent Namibia should be developing for us to say that we have also started and constructed a new harbour in an independent Namibia."

Muharukua says this is more than a symbolic development. It is an economic transformation project that could strengthen Namibia's position as a logistics gateway to Southern Africa and the continent.

"If we speak of Namibia becoming the logistics harbour of Southern Africa and Africa, then one must see to it that you beat competition, potential competition."

The governor believes Namibia's existing road infrastructure, combined with a northern harbour, could improve the country's competitiveness and unlock opportunities in fishing, critical minerals and tourism. The vision, he says, is rooted in the aspirations of Namibia's founding president and is now receiving renewed attention.

"Cape Fria that is mooted, I think, is a project, not, of course, a dream of today; it's a dream of the Founding President. May his soul rest in peace. It's really something that the 8th administration has so far taken on."

The proposed harbour could mean much more than employment. Muharukua believes it could open doors for local communities to participate in major economic sectors, while attracting investment and supporting the development of a modern city.

Muharukua is, however, calling on all interested stakeholders to work together rather than compete, emphasising that the project's benefits should extend to the entire nation.

For the people of Kunene, Cape Fria represents hope for a different future, one of opportunity, investment and prosperity, as Namibia looks towards its next chapter of development.