IN response to Israeli policies and practices in the Palestinian territories, Namibia’s recent call for an international boycott of Israeli goods and companies has sparked mixed reactions. While some support the move as a stance against perceived injustices, others express concerns over its potential impact on Namibia’s economy, particularly its diamond trade.
Namibia’s diamond industry stands as a cornerstone of its economy, with diamonds being the largest export earner, contributing significantly to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP). Trade data from 2022 reveals that Namibia annually exports goods worth $59 million to Israel, primarily consisting of diamonds, while importing $3.8 million worth of goods from Israel, mainly related to diamond-polishing equipment.
A Namibian diamond trader, preferring anonymity to speak candidly, questions the effectiveness of such sanctions, highlighting the complexities in identifying direct links between businesses and governmental policies. ‘You have to… ask, “[Does] that business directly support or in any way affect the support of IDF or that regime in what they are currently doing?”’ he remarked to VOA, referring to the Israeli Defence Forces.
Analysts express concerns over the broader implications of international sanctions against Israel on African nations. Benji Shulman, from the South African Zionist Federation, emphasises the mutual benefits derived from trade with Israel, warning that any sanctions would harm Africans who benefit from Israeli innovations in various sectors such as water, healthcare, agriculture, and technology.
Political analyst Rakkel Andreas suggests that Namibia could seek alternative buyers for its diamonds, downplaying the potential impact of severed ties with Israeli companies. However, she acknowledges the need for Namibia to weigh its national interests against the call for solidarity with Palestine. ‘If that’s the cost Namibia should carry in order for Palestine to be free, then so be it,’ Andreas told VOA.
The call for sanctions arose during a hearing at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, where Namibia, alongside 52 other countries, sought a nonbinding advisory opinion on the legal consequences of Israeli policies and practices in the Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem. The debate continues as Namibia navigates its stance between political solidarity and economic interests.