Staff Reporter
THE impressive new United States of America (USA) Embassy building in Klein Windhoek has been officially inaugurated.
The building was inaugurated by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, alongside the U.S. Mission to the United Nations Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield. Both women praised the building as a testament to the enduring growth and permanence of USA-Namibia relations, emphasizing the significance of the longstanding partnerships between the two countries, particularly in public health collaborations.
“Namibia will always be grateful to the Government of the United States for the notable assistance particularly in the healthcare sector through USAID and PEPFAR,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
Greenfield also underscored the importance of the historical U.S.-Namibia partnerships in women and youth empowerment, diversification of Namibian exports through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), promotion of workers’ rights, strengthening of inclusive democracy, and environmental protection.
She emphasized that the significance of USA-Namibia partnerships is even reflected in the building itself as it incorporates U.S. engineering, environmental, and construction expertise blended with Namibian architectural traditions, locally sourced materials, and inspiration from the natural landscape.
“We put a lot of thought into how it would be built, and who it would be built by, and, as you heard from the ambassador, we employed over 2000 Namibians, with a special focus on giving jobs to women. We offered workers financial training. We donated over 400 000 meals to school-aged children in their communities. So, to every Namibian who helped bring this vision to life, let me say thank you. This incredible structure is because of you, and it is for you,” Greenfield added.
The United States Ambassador to Namibia, Randy Berry, also spoke at the inauguration, expressing that the launch of the building represents the start of a new chapter in USA’s relationship with Namibia. He highlighted that the new building will support the close partnership between the US and Namibian governments, especially in terms of promoting democratic and inclusive traditions, expanding commercial and economic ties, and aiding Namibia’s journey in overcoming health and welfare challenges.
“This new foundation, in the form of this campus, is both significant for what it is, but much more importantly for what it stands for and what it will make possible. It represents an enduring commitment to engagement and partnership with this country. It will also mean more robust outreach and partnership, closer coordination and ability to plan for the long and promising road ahead for our two democracies,” Berry said.
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