Namibia Poised to Become Africa’s Next Energy Powerhouse: Local Empowerment and Global Partnerships Take Center Stage

Namibia is on the brink of a transformative era as it positions itself to emerge as a regional energy hub, leveraging its vast hydrocarbon reserves and renewable energy potential to drive socio-economic growth. With a series of groundbreaking oil and gas discoveries in its on- and offshore basins, the country is attracting global attention and investment. To harness this momentum, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) is proud to endorse the 7th Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC), set to take place in Windhoek from April 23-25, 2025. Organized by RichAfrica Consultancy under the leadership of CEO Selma Shimutwikeni and supported by the Ministry of Mines and Energy, this premier event will unite energy leaders, investors, and stakeholders under the theme Leading the Way: Becoming an Energy Hub with In-Country Value.

The conference will catalyze sustainable development, focusing on expanding infrastructure, fostering local content, improving access to finance, and refining regulatory frameworks. By prioritizing partnerships and investment opportunities, NIEC 2025 aims to ensure that Namibia’s energy boom translates into tangible benefits for its industries and communities.

Namibia’s energy sector has seen remarkable progress, with the country targeting its first oil production by 2029. Recent discoveries in the Orange Basin, including the Graff-1X, Venus-1X, Jonker-1X, Lesedi-1X, and Mopane-1X, have unveiled over 11 billion barrels of oil, drawing the interest of global energy giants like TotalEnergies, Shell, and Galp Energia.

In a significant development this month, Galp Energia announced the discovery of a new hydrocarbon column of light oil at the Mopane-1A well in offshore PEL 83. The find includes gas condensate and high-quality light oil reservoirs, characterized by excellent porosity, permeability, and favorable pressure conditions. Galp, alongside partners Namcor and Custos, is now evaluating the commercial viability of these discoveries while continuing exploration efforts. The next phase will see the Santorini drillship target the AVO-10 and AVO-13 reservoirs at the Mopane-3X well, further solidifying Namibia’s position as a key player in Africa’s energy landscape.

Empowering Local Communities: A Path to Economic Sovereignty

Recognizing the need to maximize local participation in its burgeoning energy sector, Namibia’s cabinet has approved the National Upstream Local Content Policy. This groundbreaking initiative aims to reduce reliance on foreign expertise by building local capacity and fostering economic sovereignty. By prioritizing the involvement of Namibian businesses, labour, and resources, the policy seeks to create a globally competitive supply chain while promoting sustainable development and energy independence.

The policy is a strategic response to the challenges of Namibia’s capital-intensive and technologically driven upstream petroleum sector. It balances the interests of local stakeholders with the needs of international oil companies, offering a model for other African nations to emulate. With the first oil production targeted within four years, the policy underscores Namibia’s commitment to ensuring that its energy wealth benefits its citizens.

NIEC 2025: A Platform for Innovation and Collaboration

NIEC 2025 promises to be a landmark event, offering delegates a platform to engage in critical discussions on Namibia’s energy future. Key topics will include the latest offshore discoveries, upcoming exploration campaigns, energy security, infrastructure development, and the rollout of renewable energy and green hydrogen projects. The conference will also explore the intersection of Namibia’s energy sector and its critical minerals industry, highlighting their role in driving broader economic and industrial growth.

An interactive exhibition will showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions, emphasizing power access, environmental stewardship, and sustainability. Additionally, the Future Energy Leaders Initiative will empower young professionals by providing mentorship, skills development, and opportunities to engage with industry leaders.

“NIEC 2025 is a testament to Namibia’s visionary leadership and its commitment to sustainable energy development,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “Under Selma Shimutwikeni’s guidance, this event will play a pivotal role in shaping Namibia’s energy future, fostering global partnerships, and driving local empowerment.”

As Namibia strides toward becoming a regional energy hub, NIEC 2025 stands as a cornerstone for achieving its ambitious goals of economic transformation and sustainable energy development. With its wealth of natural resources and forward-thinking policies, Namibia is poised to lead Africa into a new era of energy prosperity.