Local content promoted at the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) 2024

the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) 2024 opened in Windhoek with calls to prioritize ‘Namibian content’ – local content focused on boosting Namibian participation. Speakers highlighted the role of capacity development and local content policies in the development of recent oil and gas discoveries, citing collaboration as a catalyst for energy security and economic prosperity.

“Namibia has a unique opportunity to learn from past mistakes and adopt best practices from other successful oil economies as we proactively plan a local content regulation framework. More specifically, let’s call it “Namibian Content”, because that is really our focus: creating in-country value across the Namibian economy and ensuring a sustainable economic impact of Namibia’s underground resources,” said the Minister of Mines and Energy. from Namibia, Tom Alweendo.

Namibia, which will begin producing oil in 2030, stands to gain a lot from offshore oil and gas development. Maggy Shino, Petroleum Commissioner of the country’s Ministry of Mines and Energy, stated that “We are looking to capitalize on oil and gas discoveries as we make them. Our goal is to create a positive impact on the economy.”

For this, the development of content in Namibia is essential. The African Energy Chamber (AEC), a strategic partner of NIEC 2024, launched a program at the conference to facilitate local Namibians’ entry into the oil and gas market. In partnership with energy companies, the program will strengthen youth participation across the industry.

“At the Chamber, we are pleased to announce, in partnership with energy companies, that we will ensure that between 30 and 50 Namibians join the labor market today. The idea of ​​empowering citizens should be at the heart of this industry,” said NJ Ayuk, CEO of the African Energy Chamber.

To further promote local participation in the oil and gas industry, Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, CEO of RichAfrica Consultancy, announced the launch of the Future Legacy Leaders programme, aimed at empowering Namibians in hydrocarbon activities. She said: “Investing in human capital through education and knowledge sharing will lead to development and prosperity.”

Across the economy, Namibian institutions are keen to support the development of the industry. Phillip Chapman, CEO of Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), said: “As RMB, we have a vision to build a long-term, sustainable and enabling Namibia that serves all its people now and for generations to come. “The announcement of major hydrocarbon finds points to a new economy that is developing rapidly.”

Looking ahead, Namibia is prioritizing an accelerated development programme. Ebson Uanguta, acting CEO of NAMCOR, announced that “starting in November, we expect drilling to begin, with partners such as Chevron, Rhino Resources and BW Energy.”

Representing Chevron International Exploration & Production, the company’s country manager in Namibia, Channa Kurukulasuriya, shared that the corporation is “excited to participate in Namibia’s offshore activities with our 80% stake. The world continues to demand affordable, reliable and clean energy that drives economic prosperity and reduces inequality. “Chevron is committed to delivering on this, as evidenced by our significant investments in both the traditional oil and gas business and the new energy space.”

Additionally, Shell – which recently announced a discovery at the Enigma-1X well – is taking the time “to examine the vast amount of data and plan next steps.” We are ensuring that all development options are being considered. Namibia is a frontier place and we are all learning about its unique geology and its recovery potential,” said the company’s president for Namibia, Eduardo Rodríguez.