Walvis bay: Global energy technology company Baker Hughes on Wednesday hosted a United States government delegation at its integrated multi-modal facility at the Port of Walvis Bay, highlighting Namibia's growing energy sector. The delegation, led by United States Ambassador John Giordano, included Joshua Volz, Special Envoy for Global Energy Integration at the U.S. Department of Energy, and Mike Kopp, Senior Advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Energy.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the officials toured Baker Hughes' facilities, including its liquid mud plant, cement bulk facility, and integrated multi-modal operations, to observe how the company supports Namibia's oil and gas industry. Victor Joseph, Namibia's country director for Baker Hughes OFSE, stated that the company's operations provide critical infrastructure in support of the country's energy ambitions.
Joseph noted, "Namibia is positioned to become one of Africa's leading energy suppliers, and through its Walvis Bay facilities, Baker Hughes is providing the infrastructure that is helping the country reach its goals. Baker Hughes has made substantial investments in Namibia through both our facilities and our localization efforts that are creating economic opportunity for Namibia and its people."
Baker Hughes provides a range of oilfield services, including drilling, subsea wellheads, drilling and completion fluids, and tubular running services. Its Walvis Bay operations include one of the country's largest liquid mud plants, with a 15,000-barrel capacity, ensuring a reliable local supply of materials for offshore operations. The integrated multi-modal facility also houses advanced testing and maintenance equipment to support subsea operations.
Giordano commended the company's training programs and investment in local skills development. "We met several young Namibians who have been educated in Houston, Dubai, and elsewhere. But Baker Hughes not only invests locally; they train locally, and they provide education to Namibians both here and back in Houston," he said. He added that the company is contributing to job creation and economic growth.
He remarked, "Their level of expertise and engineering is absolutely incredible. As the industry expands here, there are many jobs on the horizon for local Namibians. This is a shining example of how American ingenuity brings technology to bear and powers both of our economies."
Baker Hughes also hosts local suppliers and government officials in Nigeria to share expertise and strengthen Namibia's domestic energy sector, reinforcing its commitment to localization, skills development, and sustainable growth.