• Namibia and Russia discuss closer cooperation in digital technologies

• Windhoek aims to accelerate digital transformation through partnerships

• Moscow continues to expand its tech footprint across Africa

Namibia has opened discussions with Russia on potential cooperation in digital technologies, as the country looks to accelerate its digital transformation.

On March 17, Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, met with Russia’s Deputy Minister for Digital Development, Alexander Shoitov. The talks focused on ways to strengthen technical and institutional partnerships between the two countries, at a time when digital technologies are becoming a key driver of economic growth and public sector modernization.

For Namibia, the initiative reflects a broader effort to fast-track its digital agenda through international cooperation. The country is seeking to expand its infrastructure, improve digital public policies, and support local innovation. A partnership with Russia could help facilitate knowledge transfer and the rollout of joint projects in these areas.

For Russia, the engagement fits into a wider strategy to deepen technological ties with African countries. As global digital alliances continue to shift, Moscow has stepped up efforts to expand its presence on the continent, particularly in information technology and media. Countries such as Mauritius, Congo, Angola, Zimbabwe, and the Central African Republic have already held discussions with Russia on digital cooperation.

No concrete agreement has been announced with Namibia at this stage. Still, the meeting marks an initial step toward building a bilateral partnership focused on digital development.

Adoni Conrad Quenum