Cape Town: Invest in African Energies has announced the participation of Natangwe Paulus Ithete, Namibia’s newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industrialization, Mines and Energy, as a featured speaker at the African Energy Week (AEW) 2025. The event, set to take place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, comes at a pivotal time for Namibia’s energy sector, which is witnessing significant investments in hydrocarbons, renewables, and industrial infrastructure.
According to African Press Organization, Minister Ithete, who assumed office in March 2025 under President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s administration, is navigating a period of increased activity within Namibia’s energy landscape. The country has drawn global attention due to several offshore oil discoveries by companies such as Shell, TotalEnergies, and Galp, positioning Namibia as a burgeoning petroleum frontier. Under Minister Ithete’s leadership, momentum has increased with TotalEnergies set to submit a development plan for its Venus discovery by July 2025, eyeing a final investment decision next year. Additionally, Galp announced a light oil find at its Mopane-3X well in February, and Rhino Resources struck oil at the Capricornus-1X well in April. Chevron is also planning to explore further in the Walvis Basin, while Namibia is broadening its licensing opportunities through an open-door policy initiated last year. These initiatives are part of the government’s strategy to streamline fiscal policies, reduce
investment risks, and establish Namibia as a dynamic player in the global oil and gas sector.
Concurrently, the Namibian government is committed to expanding renewable energy projects and establishing the country as a green hydrogen hub for the region. The $10-billion Hyphen Hydrogen Energy project, aimed at producing green ammonia for export from the Tsau //Khaeb National Park, is advancing with support from international partners, including the EU and Germany. Namibia’s renewable energy strategy has also attracted global interest in solar and wind projects, enhancing regional energy security and fostering industrial growth.
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, remarked on Namibia’s transformation into a formidable energy and industrial market. Ayuk highlighted Minister Ithete’s appointment as a sign of strong political commitment to advancing regulatory clarity, infrastructure, and local content. Ayuk expressed anticipation for Minister Ithete’s participation in AEW 2025, which is expected to further align with Namibia’s vision for growth.
With numerous bilateral and commercial partnerships in progress, including recent energy and industrial development talks with China, Namibia is swiftly emerging as a dynamic energy investment destination in Africa. By leveraging its oil and gas resources, renewable energy potential, and strategic geographic position, the country aims to become a regional supply hub and industrial center.