Pieter Kingston

A NEED FOR TEACHERS: Namibia is prepared to explore a request by the Bahamas for qualified teachers, particularly in mathematics, science and technical subjects, as the two countries seek to deepen cooperation in education. The issue featured in bilateral talks between Prime Minister Dr Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare and his Bahamian counterpart, Philip Davis, on the sidelines of the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda on Tuesday. Ngurare said Namibia was willing to consider the request through relevant institutions, subject to national staffing requirements, the availability of suitably qualified teachers and applicable professional standards. The discussions also covered trade, tourism and investment, with Namibia welcoming The Bahamas' interest in diversifying its food imports and exploring the country as a potential trading partner. Namibia identified beef, table grapes, blueberries, dates and other agricultural products as possible exports, subject to sanitary and market-access requirements. The two leaders also welcomed a proposed trade mission to Namibia in March 2027, led by Davis and accompanied by Bahamian business representatives, to explore commercial partnerships. The leaders also discussed a proposed memorandum of understanding on political and diplomatic consultations to strengthen bilateral engagement. Ngurare thanked The Bahamas for its historical support for Namibia's liberation struggle through the United Nations, Commonwealth and Non-Aligned Movement. Update: Nikanor Nangolo Photo contributed