WINDHOEK — The Republic of Namibia has officially taken on the chairmanship of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), with responsibilities spanning the SACU Summit, Council of Ministers, and Commission, beginning on July 15, 2024, and continuing through July 14, 2025.

According to Namibia Press Agency, speaking in Windhoek on Monday, Namibia's new leadership role is pivotal as the region addresses ongoing economic and trade challenges. The nation succeeds the Kingdom of Lesotho, which chaired SACU from July 15, 2023, to July 14, 2024. Namibia's presidency, led by Nangolo Mbumba, takes over from Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane, the Prime Minister of Lesotho, as Chairperson of the SACU Summit.

Khasipe detailed that Namibia will also lead the SACU Council of Ministers and the SACU Commission, overseeing senior trade and finance officials, heads of customs, commissioners general, and technical committees. These bodies are instrumental in executing the SACU Strategic Plan. "The Republic of Namibia will assume the role of Chairperson of the SACU Council of Ministers, SACU Commission, Senior Trade and Finance Officials, Heads of Customs, Commissioners General, as well as the Technical Committees and various Technical Experts responsible for implementing the SACU Strategic Plan, taking over from the Kingdom of Lesotho," he stated.

Additionally, the Republic of South Africa will take over the chairmanship of the Finance, Risk, and Audit Committee from Namibia, signaling a significant rotational leadership within the union's structure.