Windhoek: Namibia's growing oil and gas sector and its potential to attract global investment took centre stage at the 8th Namibia International Energy Conference 2026, currently underway in Windhoek. The four-day conference, held under the theme 'The Road to First Oil and Beyond: Partnership. Investment. Growth', is taking place from 13 to 16 April and has brought together government officials, industry leaders, investors, and energy experts to discuss opportunities in Namibia's emerging energy sector.According to Namibia Press Agency, the conference was inaugurated by Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, Chief Executive Officer of RichAfrica Consultancy. Shimutwikeni emphasized the importance of collaboration and dialogue in shaping Namibia's energy future. She highlighted that cooperation between the government, industry, and communities is essential for the sector's development, turning the conference into a pivotal meeting point for stakeholders aiming to influence the country's energy trajectory.Beatrice Bienvenu, Namibia country manager at Chevron International Exploration and Production, acknowledged the global energy industry's keen interest in Namibia's developments. Bienvenu described the current period as a historic inflection point for Namibia, attributing the international energy companies' growing interest to the country's conducive investment environment. She revealed that Chevron plans to drill the Nava-1X well in the Orange Basin under its Petroleum Exploration Licence 90 in late 2026, demonstrating confidence in Namibia's foundational work.Travis Smithard, Chief Executive Officer of Rhino Resources, further underscored Namibia's rising prominence in the global energy sector. He noted the country's emergence as a new hydrocarbon province and strategic player in the oil and gas world. The conference reflects Namibia's ongoing efforts to establish itself as a competitive energy destination as the nation approaches potential first oil production.