ABSTRACT
This chapter attempts to thread together different aspects of the young and evolving Namibian foreign policy. Namibia’s foreign policy has been tailored around the twin issues of economic development and territorial integrity within the context of southern Africa. Political issues that have contributed largely to the shaping Namibia’s foreign policy have had to do with the need to secure her territorial boundaries. The most active actors in foreign policy-making in Namibia have tended to be limited to institutions and processes influencing inter-state affairs. The role of civil society in influencing Namibia’s foreign policy-making process has been minimal. The role of Sam Nujoma, as a person, has had a fundamental influence on the formulation and practice of Namibia’s foreign policy. The government ministries such as those of Foreign Affairs, Justice, Trade and Industry, and Defence have made their contributions. Equally important has been the role of South West African People’s Organization as the dominant ruling party.
