Africa-Press – Namibia.
Deputy Prime Minister Natangwe Ithete has highlighted the critical need to provide affordable electricity to all Namibians.
He said access to power should never be a barrier to progress, opportunity or quality of life.
Ithete added that the N$100 million investment by Premier Energy through Oshakati Premier Electric is more than an infrastructure project.
“It’s a beacon of Namibia’s renewable future,” he said.
Ithete was speaking at the Oshakati Premier Electric 25th anniversary of a solar photovoltaic (PV) plant celebration and groundbreaking ceremony.
He said Namibia should take inspiration from neighbouring countries, such as South Africa and Botswana, by harnessing the potential of solar energy to expand and diversify its power supply.
“If South Africa, Botswana and other neighbouring countries can do it, why not Namibia?” he questioned.
The minister stressed that the benefits of solar electricity are far-reaching.
These included reliance on imported electricity, and ensuring national energy security.
“Lower electricity costs in the long-term, supporting affordability for households, reduce reliance on imported electricity, ensure national energy security, create jobs and build local skills, particularly for the youth,” Ithete said.
“As a line minister, my stand and vision for our industries, mines and energy are value-addition, strengthening of local content and beneficiation. In all we do, we try to add value to our local raw materials, and build capacity for local players for the benefit of our communities,” he added.
Ithete revealed that the government remains focused on implementing reforms that enable clean, affordable and scalable energy solutions.
He called on private institutions to offer innovative and tailored financing that supports these national priorities.
Speaking at the same occasion, Oshakati Premier Electric chief executive Nelson Sheya expressed gratitude to the Oshakati Town Council for their collaboration in making affordable electricity accessible to the community.
“We were able to provide three service connections by reinterring shareholders and turn on investments in order to connect the residents in the three communal areas,” he said.
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