Nandi-Ndaitwah Promises ‘Unwavering Focus’ on Unlocking Oil and Gas

Namibia seems to have found itself in the position to potentially reap massive benefits from the oil and gas sector.

The country’s eighth administration, led by president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, is determined to ensure it can stick the landing.

The president highlighted this during her maiden state of the nation address (Sona) on 24 April, where she vowed to ensure Namibia achieves its first oil production in shortest possible time frame.

“We will accelerate strategic partnerships, streamline regulatory processes, and invest in critical infrastructure to unlock the full potential of our hydrocarbon resources,” she said.

The address further reveals that the administration has centred the oil and gas industry as a vital component for its development plans.

Nandi-Ndaitwah includes it as one of her eight critical economic enablers, stating that it has the potential to transform the Namibian economy within the next five years.

This makes moving from discovery to production vital.

“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,” she explained.

She said she would be monitoring the new industry closely to nurture its potential benefits for Namibians.

During the Namibian International Energy Conference, African Energy Chamber executive chairman NJ Ayuk cautioned that it was vital to pursue the move to production aggressively.

“Produce every drop of hydrocarbons you can find and better the life of your people, and I urge the industry to do one thing and one thing only – drill, baby, drill,” he said.

He explained that other African countries had floundered at this hurdle before.

“Case in point, Ghana had great discoveries. Three months later, Uganda had great discoveries. Ghana produced three and a half years later. Uganda didn’t produce for 17 years.”

At the same conference Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted that these concrete actions, such as the construction of an oil refinery, should be taken with the goal to uplift Namibians in mind.

“As we continue to reimagine a resource-rich Namibia, one that delivers lasting value and broad-based prosperity, our ambition is now matched by clear direction and practical action.

“This journey is rooted in our national development priorities and speaks directly to the transformation we seek: one defined by opportunity, equity, and long-term impact,” she said.

Currently, approval is pending for the construction of an oil refinery by Clasox Petroleum at Walvis Bay.

There have also been reports earlier this year that ISF Trading Enterprises is planning a 300 000 barrel-per-stream-day modular oil refinery in the same area.

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