Africa-Press – Namibia. THE Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy has revealed that it is actively working with industry stakeholders to build domestic capacity to manufacture and supply materials, equipment, and services used in oil exploration and production.
“Currently, many of the materials, equipment and services used in oil exploration and production are imported. We are actively collaborating with industry stakeholders to shift this dynamic by building local capacity to manufacture and supply these goods and services domestically. This initiative is not just about oil — it is about strengthening Namibia’s industrial base and creating high-value jobs. If structured correctly, the industries that emerge to support oil production will also contribute positively to sectors such as mining, renewable energy and construction, broadening the economic impact beyond petroleum,” the ministry explained.
The ministry emphasised that this focus is vital, as localising production and supply chains has been identified as a key priority — particularly in its efforts to ensure the oil sector becomes a catalyst for long-term economic growth, infrastructure development and job creation across multiple sectors.
“While recent oil discoveries have drawn international attention, our focus is on ensuring that this industry serves as a catalyst for long-term economic growth, infrastructure development and job creation across various sectors. Oil should not stand alone; rather, it must work in synergy with other industries to drive sustainable and inclusive development,” the ministry added.
The ministry also highlighted the development of critical infrastructure as one of the oil sector’s most urgent and immediate needs, stressing that offshore drilling and production require modernised ports, efficient transport networks, and a reliable energy supply.
“By strategically planning infrastructure investments, we are ensuring that these developments benefit not just the petroleum industry but Namibia’s broader economy. For instance, the expansion of the Lüderitz and Walvis Bay ports is set to strengthen Namibia’s position as a regional logistics hub, creating new opportunities in mining, agriculture, manufacturing and trade. Similarly, improvements in road, rail and power infrastructure will enhance business operations across multiple industries, making Namibia more competitive on the global stage,” the ministry explained.
The ministry further revealed ongoing efforts to ensure that Namibians can fully participate in, and lead within, the oil industry — including targeted investments in education and skills development.
“The oil sector demands expertise in engineering, geology, project management, finance and environmental science — fields that will remain valuable even beyond oil production. That is why we are partnering with institutions such as NUST, UNAM and technical training centres to equip Namibians with the specialised skills needed to drive the sector forward. By developing a skilled workforce today, we are laying the foundation for future industries, ensuring that Namibia remains a leader in energy, technology and innovation for generations to come,” the ministry explained.
Furthermore, the ministry stressed the importance of safeguarding and strengthening other key sectors — including agriculture, tourism and fisheries — to ensure that petroleum revenues complement, rather than replace, them.
“Strategic investments in food security, sustainable tourism and resource management will ensure that Namibia builds a well-balanced economy that benefits all citizens. We are committed to using petroleum revenues as a tool for broader economic development, ensuring that wealth generated from this sector is reinvested into national priorities that improve the quality of life for every Namibian,” the ministry added.
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