Windhoek: A two-day workshop to strengthen Namibia's participation in the emerging petroleum value chain commenced in Windhoek on Tuesday. The Upstream Oil and Gas Local Suppliers' workshop, hosted by the Petroleum Training and Education Fund (Petrofund), brings together government officials, international oil companies, financial institutions, regulators, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to explore procurement opportunities, compliance requirements, financing access, and industry standards in the upstream oil and gas sector.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Petrofund Chief Executive Officer Nillian Mulemi welcomed the participants, stating that the workshop marks a significant milestone in Namibia's efforts to build a competitive and inclusive petroleum sector. Mulemi highlighted that Namibia is at a pivotal moment with recent developments in the upstream petroleum sector, presenting both economic opportunities and national responsibilities to ensure broad sharing of benefits.
Mulemi further explained that Petrofund's role extends beyond training and education, acting as a catalyst for capacity development and a bridge between industry and local talent. She emphasized the importance of the National Upstream Petroleum Local Content Policy, which provides a framework for the systematic development of Namibian skills, businesses, and institutions, and calls for deliberate, structured, and measurable participation of Namibians across the value chain.
Veronica Mungonena, lead contract procurement engineer from TotalEnergies Namibia EP, highlighted progress in supplier development within the sector. She noted that TotalEnergies had significantly expanded its supplier base as exploration activities increased offshore, growing from eight to 62 direct suppliers, most of which are Namibian-owned entities. Mungonena encouraged local businesses to engage actively and prepare for upcoming procurement opportunities, stressing that contract readiness and compliance are key requirements for participation in the sector.
The workshop aims to strengthen partnerships between local businesses and international stakeholders, including financial institutions and industry operators. Key partners include the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board, FirstRand Group Namibia (FNB/RMB), and industry associations such as the Namibia Petroleum Operators Association. The workshop is set to conclude on Wednesday.