RMB Namibia’s CEO, Philip Chapman, says collaboration between financial institutions and energy stakeholders is very important to drive Namibia’s oil and gas sector forward.
Chapman is one of the banking leaders who spoke during the opening ceremony at the Namibia International Energy Conference in Windhoek.
He said Namibia’s offshore discoveries present immense growth potential, and at RMB Namibia is committed to providing tailored financial solutions that empower global and local enterprises to unlock opportunities across every stage of the energy value chain.
Chevron’s Country Manager for Namibia, Channa Kurukulasuriya, said the company’s recent entry into PEL 82 was a strong sign of its long-term commitment to unlock Namibia’s energy potential.
According to Kurukulasuriya, Chevron completed its geological survey in 2023 and, in December 2024, drilled with zero harmful incidents, showing commitment to safe operations.
Namcor acting managing director Victoria Sibeya said the national oil company is transitioning from a regulatory body to a pivotal exploration partner.
Sibeya also said Namcor focuses on building local capacity and fostering partnerships with international companies to maximize Namibia’s energy potential.
“Our focus is on leveraging local resources to benefit Namibian communities – attracting investment to build local skills and infrastructure that directly addresses our country’s energy needs,” Sibeya said.
RichAfrica Consultancy CEO Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni said Namibia must not only focus on its recent discoveries but also prioritize new exploration activities and the development of infrastructure and the local workforce to establish a resilient and sustainable energy value chain.
RichAfrica Consultancy is the Namibia International Energy Conference convener.
The role of the oil and gas sector in developing Namibia has been pushed to the forefront, especially after President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah singled the industry as one of the eight economic enablers.
Speaking in parliament on Thursday, April 24, 2025, when she presented her first State of the Nation address, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the oil and gas sector could transform our economy in the next five years.
“This new industry will require close monitoring, hence my decision to place it in the Presidency as I look to nurture its potential to benefit Namibians.
“To gain maximum benefit from this industry, the oil refinery is part of the programme,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah added that the 8th Administration will ensure that Namibia achieves its first oil production within the shortest timeframe.
“We will accelerate strategic partnerships, streamline regulatory processes, and invest in critical infrastructure to unlock the full potential of our hydrocarbon resources. “This milestone will fuel our energy security and drive rural and peri-urban electrification, job creation, local capacity development and sustainable growth for generations to come,” she said.
