Windhoek, Namibia – 29 April 2025: The 7th edition of the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) concluded on 25 April 2025, reaffirming that energy remains a national priority. The three-day event showcased government commitment, private sector alignment and a strong emphasis on building local content, infrastructure and inclusive growth.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of H.E. Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, the Right Honourable Prime Minister Dr. Elijah Ngurare affirmed Namibia’s commitment to becoming a key energy player.
“The 8th Administration will place unwavering focus on ensuring that Namibia achieves first oil production within the shortest timeframe. We will accelerate strategic partnerships, streamline regulatory processes, and invest in critical infrastructure to unlock the full potential of our hydrocarbon resources. This milestone will not only fuel our energy security but also drive rural and peri-urban electrification, job creation, local capacity development, and sustainable growth for generations to come,” said President Nandi-Ndaitwah.
The conference also benefited from the leadership and participation of Honourable Natangwe Ithete, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, whose presence reinforced the Ministry’s role in driving policy direction and enabling investment.
Speakers urged Namibia to accelerate exploration and ensure clarity in policy, processes and regulation. A key theme across panels was the need for a stable and enabling environment to attract long-term investment and deliver energy security.
In her closing remarks, NIEC Convenor and RichAfrica CEO, Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, noted:
“The President’s message provided the clarity and momentum stakeholders were seeking. It has helped set a clear path for Namibia’s energy future.”
Private sector leaders expressed strong support for Namibia’s direction. Even ahead of the finalisation of the country’s local content policy, companies have begun training Namibians, forming partnerships with local firms and aligning with national development goals.
Speakers also encouraged Namibia to adopt a phased and responsive approach to local content—one that evolves with the industry, meets national objectives and creates real opportunities across the value chain.
“Human capital development must remain central to our approach. Education, training, and capacity building are critical to unlocking long-term benefits—not just for today’s projects, but for generations to come,” said Shimutwikeni.
Another priority that emerged strongly was the need to address financing across the energy value chain. Speakers called for innovative financing mechanisms, blended finance solutions and enhanced access to capital to support project development, infrastructure rollouts and long-term growth. Financial institutions and investors were urged to align their instruments with Namibia’s energy roadmap to enable scale and bankability.
The conference also noted global trends in mergers and acquisitions, particularly the convergence of oil and gas with renewables. However, speakers stressed that in Namibia, the energy transition must be underpinned by expanded power generation and infrastructure investment to ensure a realistic and inclusive path forward.
A major focus of the conference was the urgent need to invest in infrastructure—from power generation and transmission to transport and processing facilities—as a foundation for future energy growth.
The conference also highlighted the importance of partnerships. Collaboration between government, private sector, and communities was described as essential to building Namibia’s energy future. While oil and gas featured prominently, delegates were reminded of Namibia’s energy mix policy and the country’s competitive advantage in renewables. With abundant solar, wind, and water resources — as well as critical minerals — Namibia is well-positioned to play a strategic role in the global energy transition.
As the country drives its energy transformation, inclusivity was repeatedly emphasized. Women, youth and communities must not be left behind. A just transition must be participatory and built in partnership with the private sector, which plays a vital role not only in financing but in innovation, skills transfer, and long-term impact.
As Namibia continues on its journey toward becoming an energy hub with in-country value, the outcomes of this year’s conference reaffirm that progress is not only possible — it is already underway. With the right partnerships, policies, and purpose, Namibia is poised to lead the way in shaping an inclusive and sustainable energy future.