•  Chollastic Tjehiua  

The third Namibian Oil and Gas Conference, is set to shine a spotlight on the country’s growing status as a strategic hub for energy development.  The conference scheduled for 12 to 15 August in Windhoek, will focus on growth, local capacity building and sector transformation.

It will further introduce a mentorship matchmaking platform, linking industry experts with aspiring professionals. Additionally, funds raised from the public’s exhibition entrance fees will be directed to a selected beneficiary. 
The conference will draw a total of 1,012 delegates, 29 sponsors or partners, 42 exhibitors, 35 countries participating and 71 speakers.

It was launched in 2024 with over 500 participants and this year’s session will offer practical guidance for local companies as well as professionals interested in becoming suppliers within Namibia’s growing energy market. NAMCOR spokesperson Paulo Coelho, reiterated the importance of turning exploration into concrete development. 

“This year we look ahead to the main event in August. [The theme]aligns with our dedication to moving beyond just discovering resources,” said Coelho.

 “We are now focused on taking real steps to grow the industry and place Namibia at the center of the global energy stage. Our continued involvement shows our dedication to turning opportunities into action and helping Namibia take its rightful place as a leader in the energy sector.”

He urged young Namibians, students, entrepreneurs and early-career professionals to engage, learn and get involved in the oil and gas conversation. “Attend the conference, join the dialogues, ask tough questions and explore how your skills, ideas and aspirations fit into this dynamic industry,” he added. 

Deputy chairman of the Economic Association of Namibia (EAN), Jesaya Hano-Oshike, said the 2025 conference will expand to further position Namibia as the next energy frontier.  “The oil and gas industry is rapidly evolving, and Namibia must keep up by taking clear steps to build and manage its energy future,” said Hano-Oshike.

Margreth Gustavo, executive director at the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB),  explained that the conference will focus on three key areas, which are investment-ready supply chain opportunities, local content and industrial participation as well as youth employment through skills development. 

She maintains that the future of Namibia’s oil and gas sector lies onshore in its people, businesses,and ambitions.