InFocus Namibia - September 2025

InFocus NAMIBIA SEPTEMBER, 2025

AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

BLUE ECONOMY Scan Me!

ISSN 2026-9080

BEYOND THE OCEAN

ISSN 2026-9080

Planning to do your report?

LET YOUR REPORT COME TO LIFE

We are here to transform your reports with compelling content and visually captivating designs.

Contact us today via whatsapp or email to discuss how we can support your next project! +264 81 750 3010

info@rdjpublishing.africa

CONTENTS EDITION: SEPTEMBER 2025

04 FROM THE EDITOR 06 QUICK FACTS LEAD STORY 07 From Policy to Action: 2022 - 2031 10 12 15

From Green Deal to Trade Barrier: The European CBAM Shock for Africa

KEY DATES City of Windhoek Launches Zero Emissions and Zero Car Week with First Public EV Charging Port Cross-border trading is growing

17 Ethiopia Inaugurates Grand Renaissance Dam 19 20 FUEL PRICES Namibia’s Onshore Kavango Basin Set for First Real Oil Assessment by End21 November

23 24 25 27 28 34 37 38 45

POWER CONSUMPTION

NAMIBIA DAM LEVELS UPDATE Natural disasters cost Africa $12.7 bln in infrastructure losses each year (CDRI)

SOLAR ENERGY PRODUCTION EXECUTIVE SPOTLIGHT MEET THE TEAM TENDERS PRESS RELEASES CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

From The Editor Beyond The Ocean View

This month’s edition takes you deeper into the heart of Namibia’s blue economy. Our lead feature unpacks the Blue Economy Policy and outlines the strategic actions needed to turn vision into tangible results.

Within Namibia itself, ReconAfrica’s Kavango West 1X well is drilling toward the Otavi reservoir, with results expected in November. Early estimates suggest gross unrisked prospective resources of 346 million barrels of crude or 1.8 trillion cubic feet of gas, though risk-adjusted figures are naturally more modest. This development underscores Namibia’s evolving energy landscape, complementing ongoing efforts to balance resource exploitation with sustainability.

Dear Reader, Welcome to another anticipated edition of InFocus Namibia! If you’re joining us for the first time, welcome onboard.

When we hear the term, “Blue Economy”, our mind often goes straight to the blue colour of the ocean and the benefits drawn from it. Yet, the blue economy stretches far beyond the surface of the sea. It encompasses all water-based and water-linked resources, including both onshore and offshore resources, along with the related sustainable benefits they bring.

With a coastline stretching approximately 1,570 kilometres, Namibia commands an inshore and EEZ water surface area of about 580,000 square kilometres. This area is nearly two-thirds the size of Namibia’s land territory.

This vast resource base positions Namibia as a nation with remarkable opportunities to unlock the potential of the blue economy.

Unknown to many, at its core, the blue economy spans industries that fuel national growth, such as water resources, shipping and transport, tourism, marine renewable energy, minerals, genetic resources, pharmaceuticals, blue carbon trading, biotechnology and general sea-based products. In 2024, the fishing sector alone contributed approximately 3.5 percent to Namibia’s GDP and employed at least 16,000 people, underscoring the fishing industry’s economic significance.

Namibia’s National Development Plan (NDP6) recognises this potential under one of its many Thematic Areas for economic diversification. Our territorial waters and EEZ can be powerful drivers of economic transformation. But realising this requires robust governance, frameworks that harmonise linkages and minimize conflict across fisheries, transport, environment, mining, tourism, and logistics, all of which share the same coastal space.

This report is a FREE Publication written and authored through collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC based in Windhoek, Namibia.

The content is collected from publicly available information and so its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

Beyond our borders, Ethiopia has made global headlines with the official launch of the $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on September 9, 2025. This monumental project, Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam, aims to generate 5,000 megawatts of power while holding 74 billion cubic meters of water.

We also explore the implications of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on Africa’s trade with the European Union. As part of the European Green Deal, the CBAM will apply a carbon price of €65–85 per tonne of CO₂ on imports of steel, aluminum, cement, fertilizers, power, and hydrogen. For Africa, this could mean a loss of up to $27 billion in exports each year, underscoring the urgency of greener industrial strategies.

In addition, we reflect on the increasing toll of natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, cyclones, storms, and landslides placing pressure on critical infrastructure across Africa, from water systems and telecommunications to ports, airports, and oil and gas facilities. For the electricity sector, cross-border trading dynamics, another pressing theme, also features prominently in this issue.

We thus hope you find this edition informative as usual and encourage you to follow and engage with us on all our social media accounts as we continue to explore and discuss these vital issues.

As always, the conversation continues at infocus@rdjpublishing.africa .

Yours, editor@rdjpublishing.africa

(David A. Jarrett) Editor in Chief

(Grace Kangotue) Editor

RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd is the publishing home of the InFocus Namibia, written and authored through the collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC (www.rdjconsulting.co.za).

PO Box 23738 Windhoek, NAMIBIA Telephone +264 81 750 3010 Email info@rdjpublishing.africa WEBSITE www.rdjpublishing.africa

RDJ Consulting Services CC is an advisory consultancy to the Energy, Water and Transport Sectors with a focus on sustainable operations and renewable energy.

Quick Facts

N A M I B I A POPULATION (2023)

87%

36.9% 3,022,401

SIZE

Male

Female

1,474,224

1,548,177

BLUE ECONOMY

580,000 km2 (65% of the land surface area)

NAMIBIA INSHORE AND (EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE) EEZ WATER SURFACE (2022)

LITERACY RATE (15+ YEARS) (2023)

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE (2023)

N$245.1 billion

0.56

6.75

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (nominal terms) (2024)

GINI COEFFICIENT (2023)

REPO RATE (Aug 2025)

1,570 km long NAMIBIAN COASTLINE (2022)

10.50

3.20

PRIME LENDING RATE (Aug 2025)

INFLATION (CPI) (Aug 2025)

NAMIBIA'S BLUE ECONOMY KEY INDUSTRIES & RESOURCES (2017)

2024

FISHERIES

MINERALS

AQUACULTURE

GENETIC RESOURCES

WATER RESOURCES

PHARMACEUTICAL

672 MW/h

SHIPPING & TRANSPORT

BLUE CARBON TRADING

POWER DEMAND AT PEAK

TOURISM

BITECHNOLOGY

MARINE RENEWABLE ENERGY

GENERAL SEA BASED PRODUCTS

4288000 MW/h TOTAL ELECTRICITY UNITS SOLD

7.3% NAMIBIAN AGRICULTURE, FISHING AND FORESTRY SECTORʼS CONTRIBUTION TO GDP (2024)

Local Generation - Energy (%)

46%

Energy Imports (%)

54%

SOURCE: RDJ CONSULTING SERVICES CC

Lead Story

From Policy to Action: 2022 - 2031 AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor @ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group Chief Executive Officer

Fishing Vessel Courtesy: Getty Images Signature

N

amibia's Blue Economy represents a promising frontier for sustainable development, leveraging the vast resources of the ocean to drive economic

growth while preserving marine ecosystems. This approach encompasses a range of activities, including fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, and tourism, all aimed at fostering economic resilience and environmental stewardship.

By harnessing the potential of its extensive coastline and rich marine biodiversity, Namibia is poised to create new opportunities for job creation, food security, and innovation. For instance, the fisheries sector alone contributes approximately 3.5% to the national GDP and employs over 16,000 people, highlighting its significant economic impact.

Here we will delve into the key components of Namibia's Blue Economy, highlighting the strategies and initiatives that are shaping its future and the challenges that must be addressed to ensure its success.

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

The main arguments presented in the policy document highlight Namibia’s aquatic ecosystems are vital for sustaining life and driving economic growth. They provide oxygen, regulate global temperatures, and offer resources such as food, minerals, energy, transportation, and tourism opportunities. However, these ecosystems are fragile and threatened by human activities, pollution, and climate change.

The traditional single-sector regulatory approach lacks coordination and often results in conflicting uses of aquatic ecosystems. Namibia requires an integrated governance framework to sustainably manage aquatic resources, ensuring environmental protection, economic growth, and social inclusivity. Namibia’s Blue Economy has significant potential to address challenges like poverty, unemployment, and income inequality. Sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, mining, renewable energy, tourism, and maritime transport can drive economic growth, create jobs, and generate foreign earnings.

07

Protecting aquatic ecosystems is essential for maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem health, and climate resilience.

Measures such as reducing pollution, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating climate change impacts are critical for sustainable development. The Blue Economy must ensure fair distribution of benefits, meaningful participation of marginalized groups, and social equity. This includes empowering women, youth, and economically disadvantaged communities.

Developing human capital, promoting research, and fostering innovation are necessary to unlock the full potential of the Blue Economy. Namibia must invest in education, training, and technology to build capacity for current and emerging activities. This reinforces the need to strengthen regional and international partnerships, attract investment, and create a conducive environment for private sector participation to grow and expand the Blue Economy.

Coordination among the various government ministries, private sector, NGOs, academia, and other stakeholders is essential for effective implementation of the Blue Economy Policy. This includes aligning with national, regional, and international frameworks.

These arguments collectively emphasize the need for a sustainable, inclusive, and coordinated approach to harness Namibia’s aquatic resources for economic growth, environmental protection, and social well-being.

The policy provides several examples to support the main arguments regarding Namibia's Blue Economy Policy:

Namibia’s aquatic ecosystems contribute significantly to the economy by providing jobs, food, minerals, transportation, energy resources, ecological services, and tourism opportunities. The fishing sector for example contributes 3.9% to Namibia’s GDP, equivalent to N$6.9 billion, and employs about 16,970 people. In terms of marine and coastal mining contribute about N$10.84 billion annually and employ approximately 3,780 people.

Stresses related to pollution, overfishing, illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing, and climate change effects such as ocean warming, acidification, and oxygen depletion threaten aquatic ecosystems. Plastic litter, hazardous chemicals, and effluent discharge are identified as major pollutants.

There are positives through renewable energy opportunities such as wind, tidal, wave, green hydrogen, and hydropower.

Further benefits accrue through marine biotechnology and bio-prospecting for pharmaceuticals, enzymes, cosmetics, and other products. Some specific examples relate to: Carbon trading through aquatic ecosystems' carbon sequestration potential.

Coastal tourism activities like boat trips, marine wildlife watching, windsurfing, kite-surfing, and wave-surfing.

Namibia’s coastline features areas of unmatched beauty, including sand dunes meeting the ocean and recreational areas. This enhances tourism products and opportunities.

Desalination plant Courtesy: Getty Images

08

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

Courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=3302591343147988&set=pcb.3302592553147867

Wider actions are interacted as Namibia’s ports serve as a logistics hub for the SADC region, facilitating trade for neighboring countries like Angola, Zambia, DRC, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa.

Maritime transport accounts for 85% of Namibia’s traded goods.

Benchmarking visits to Norway and Australia provided insights into managing Blue Economies, focusing on legal and institutional arrangements.

These all illustrate the economic, environmental, and social importance of Namibia's aquatic ecosystems and the opportunities and challenges in implementing the Blue Economy Policy.

Namibia is poised to continue its journey towards sustainable development and economic growth through

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

various initiatives and strategies. One of the key areas of focus is the expansion and enhancement of fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport, and tourism. By investing in these sectors, Namibia aims to create more job opportunities, improve food security, and drive innovation.

Additionally, Namibia needs to prioritize environmental conservation and the sustainable use of marine resources as it pushes economic progress to ensure the long-term health of its ecosystems. This includes implementing policies and practices that promote responsible fishing, reduce pollution, and protect marine biodiversity.

Namibia's future is promising as it continues to leverage its natural resources while investing in sustainable development and address the challenges that come with economic growth and environmental stewardship.

09

From Green Deal to Trade Barrier: The European CBAM Shock for Africa contributed by:

Courtesy: https://ferliner.nl/carbon-border-adjustment-mechanism-cbam/

EU’s CBAM to charge €65–85/t CO₂ on imports of steel, aluminum, cement, fertilizers, power, hydrogen.

Africa may lose $27B exports yearly; key sectors hit: Mozambique aluminum, South Africa steel, Morocco & Egypt fertilizers.

Carbon taxes could retain $28B for Africa, but MRV costs 0.5–1.5% GDP; EU keeps revenues if not recognized.

T

he Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), in a transitional phase since October 2023 and scheduled for full implementation in 2026, applies

a carbon levy on imports of carbon-intensive products such as steel, aluminum, cement, fertilizers, electricity, and hydrogen. Designed to reduce carbon leakage, it aligns the carbon price paid by foreign exporters with that borne by European industrial producers under the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS).

The CBAM is part of the European Green Deal, which targets a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared with 1990 levels. According to European market data, the average price of carbon under the ETS ranged between €65 and €85 per ton in 2024. Eurostat reported that in the same year, around 38% of extra-EU imports in the targeted sectors originated from countries without an equivalent carbon pricing mechanism.

10

According to UNCTAD estimates, exports from Africa to the European Union (EU) represented about 34% of the continent’s total exports in 2024. Within this share, several CBAM-covered products remain significant: aluminum exports from Mozambique accounted for approximately 68% of that country’s total exports in 2024; South Africa exported an estimated USD 5.7 billion of iron and steel products to the EU; Moroccan fertilizer exports to the EU reached USD 2.5 billion; and Egyptian exports reached USD 2 billion. Research by the London School of Economics projected that African export losses could amount to USD 27 billion annually if the CBAM is extended to all industrial sectors.

On emissions, Africa produced about 1.5 billion tons of CO₂ in 2024, equivalent to 4% of the global total, according to the Global Carbon Atlas. Per capita emissions stood at 0.9 tons, compared with 6.5 tons in the European Union and 14.7 tons in the United States. These figures highlight the

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

Courtesy:https://www.cgdev.org/blog/eus-carbon-border-tax-how-can-developing-countries-respondhttps://ferliner.nl/carbon-border-adjustment-mechanism-cbam/

gap between Africa’s low contribution to global emissions and the potential costs it may face under CBAM rules.

Several African countries have introduced or explored domestic carbon taxes. South Africa has applied a carbon tax since 2019, set at approximately €8 per ton in 2024, significantly below the EU benchmark of €65–85 per ton.

Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya announced feasibility studies in 2023 to assess similar mechanisms. At the continental level, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) convened a ministerial session in 2024, calling for a coordinated position on the CBAM and exemptions for the 33 African countries classified by the United Nations as Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Building the measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems required to comply with European standards carries substantial costs. A World Bank study (2022) estimated that implementing such systems could represent between 0.5% and 1.5% of GDP for developing countries during the initial years. According to OECD estimates, applying a national carbon tax of €50 per ton would reduce GDP by 0.5% to 1% in the short term in Africa’s most industrialized economies but could generate up to USD 28 billion in fiscal revenues if adopted across the continent.

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) has underlined that unless African efforts are recognized as equivalent by the EU, CBAM revenues would be collected entirely by European authorities, reducing potential fiscal receipts for African states. At the same time, the European Commission projects that CBAM will cover around 2% of total EU emissions once fully implemented, suggesting a limited impact on global emissions but a direct effect on trade flows.

Looking ahead to 2030, the European Commission estimates that CBAM could generate between €10 and €15 billion annually in revenues. For African economies, the policy implications are twofold: either absorb the additional costs, thereby reducing export competitiveness, or establish national carbon pricing mechanisms to retain at least part of the fiscal proceeds domestically. Several reports, including those from UNCTAD and SAIIA, identify a coordinated continental strategy—linking taxation, negotiation, and industrial policy—as the most viable approach to mitigate economic losses, secure climate finance, and channel investments toward low-emission industrialization.

Idriss Linge

11

Key Dates

COMMODITY OF THE MONTH (JULY 2025) BLANKETS

SOURCE: RDJ CONSULTING SERVICES CC Exported N$ 398 104 Imported N$ 8.1 million

REPO RATE

6.75%

Namibia Statistics Agency

Monetary Policy Announcement - April (Published 13 August 2025)

Repo Rate

Bank of Namibia Monetary Policy Announcement Dates

Repo Rate 2025 6.75%

6.75%

6.75%

6.75%

7

Date

6 5 4

15 October 2025

3 2 1

03 December 2025

0

Feb 2025

Apr 2025

Jun 2025

Aug 2025

Oct 2025

Dec 2025

INFLATION RATE

3.20%

Annual Inflation Rate - June (Published 08 August 2025)

Inflation (CPI)

Monthly Inflation Rate 2025 5 4

3.60% 3.20%

4.20% 3.60%

3.50%

3.70%

3.50%

3.20%

3 2 1 0

12

Jan 2025 Feb 2025 Mar 2025 Apr 2025 May 2025 Jun 2025 Jul 2025 Aug 2025 Sep 2025 Oct 2025 Nov 2025 Dec 2025

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

Discover Namibia’s renowned Publishing House!

Proudly Namibian-owned and operated, we’re more than a publishing house we’re champions for a sustainable future! With a strong focus on Energy and Sustainability, our publications and thought leadership drive conversations that matter.

Partner with us today, and together, let’s create lasting impact!

www.rdjpublishing.africa

Namibia Green Hydrogen Projects' Timeline (2025)

SOURCE: HTTPS://GH2NAMIBIA.COM/MEDIA-AND-DOWNLOADS/ 14

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

City of Windhoek Launches Zero Emissions and Zero Car Week with First Public EV Charging Port The City of Windhoek has officially launched Zero Emissions and Zero Car Week 2025, which took place from 15 to 22 September 2025, as part of its commitment to promoting sustainable urban living and addressing the urgent challenges of climate change.

The week kicked off with the inauguration of a publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging port, unveiled by her Worship Mayor, Cllr. Ndeshihafela Larandja. The 22kW charger, generously donated by Tesla Energy Solutions of Namibia, represents a major milestone in Namibia’s transition to cleaner transport solutions.

Zero Emissions Week is more than just a campaign; it’s a call to action. Throughout the week, residents engaged in a variety of interactive and educational activities, including an environmental video awareness competition, cycling gear giveaways, and themed events like Car-Free Day, corporate trivia, and city-wide walking and cycling challenges. By promoting alternatives to fuel-based transport and fostering awareness around environmental sustainability, the City of Windhoek aims to inspire lasting behavioural change and contribute meaningfully to Namibia’s climate goals while advancing climate mitigation actions.

Cross-border Trading is Growing AUTHOR: David Jarrett and Team Editor @ RDJ Publishing and RDJ Group Chief Executive Officer

Figure 1 Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa (Courtesy: DIRCO, South Africa)

T

ransmission interconnectors in a power pool offer several benefits that enhance the overall efficiency and reliability of the power system. Transmission

interconnectors facilitate cross-border trading and both play a role as crucial mechanisms to improve supply reliability and affordability within the Southern Africa region.

Cross-border trading allows for the sharing of electricity across borders, which can help balance supply and demand more effectively. By enabling cross-border electricity trading, interconnectors can help lower the cost of electricity. Countries can import cheaper electricity during periods of high demand or when their own generation costs are high, leading to overall cost savings.

In light of this importance, South Africa's National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) approved four new electricity trading licenses, including an import/export license for Greenco Power Services (Africa GreenCo) to trade electricity across borders within the Southern African Power

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

Pool (SAPP). As of September 2025, in addition to South Africa, Namibia and Zambia have regulatory frameworks that allow for the issuance of licenses for private entities to trade electricity across borders within the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP).

Namibia The Electricity Control Board (ECB) issues licenses for the import, export, trading, and generation of electricity. Under Namibia's Electricity Act, a license is required for any entity to engage in electricity trading, including cross-border activities. The ECB has been working to open its market to independent players, and a 2023 guide details the requirements for private companies to access Namibia's modified single-buyer (MSB) market and, by extension, the SAPP market.

Zambia The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) issues licenses for electricity trading. Zambia's Electricity Act (2019) requires ministerial approval for electricity imports or exports,

17

unless the trade occurs on a competitive spot market like the SAPP. In that case, no special import or export license is needed beyond the standard domestic trading license.

Examples: GreenCo Power Services, the same entity recently licensed by NERSA in South Africa, was issued a "trading license" by Zambia's ERB, which was the first of its kind in that country.

Zimbabwe The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has confirmed that a SAPP member does not need a Zimbabwean license to trade on the SAPP from the country's connection points. Zimbabwe does not specifically reference competitive markets or require a separate import/export license for SAPP trading activities.

An entity must still possess a Bulk or Retail Supply License to engage in trading within Zimbabwe.

Botswana The Botswana Energy Regulatory Authority (BERA) is established to regulate the energy sector, including electricity. Botswana's Electricity Supply Act includes definitions for the import and export of electricity, indicating that these activities are subject to licensing.

However, recent reports have focused on the revocation of dormant petroleum licenses, and less information is

publicly available on the issuance of private cross-border electricity licenses.

Despite these developments, historical issues such as investment deficits, energy nationalism, and market limitations continue to pose challenges to the full potential of SAPP. Currently, the Angola-Namibia interconnector is estimated to cost $356 million, around a tenth of the total investment needed for transmission lines by 2040 to enhance regional integration.

Readings: https://www.moneyweb.co.za/news/south-africa/nersa-approvescross-border-electricity-trading/ https://www.sapp.co.zw/sites/default/files/R7SAPP%20MONTHLY%20REPORT%202025.pdf https://botswanalaws.com/Botswana2016Pdf/14_of_2016.pdf https://botswanalaws.com/consolidated-statutes/principlelegislation/electricity-supply#:~:text= (b)%20includes%20any%20electrical%20plant,%22transmission%20li ne%22%E2%80%94 https://www.ecb.org.na/wpcontent/uploads/2023/08/Regulatory_Landscape_in_SAPP.pdf#:~:tex t=Therefore%2C%20any%20entity%20wishing%20to%20trade%20on, as%20these%20constitute%20competitive%20spot%20market%20tra des. https://aln.africa/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/ALN-Power-GuideZambia.pdf#:~:text=ERB%20is%20the%20statutory%20regulatory%20 body%20responsible,distribution%2C%20and%20ensures%20complia nce%20with%20sector%20regulations.

SAPP Interconnecors (Courtesy: Transmission interconnectors)

18

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

Ethiopia Inaugurates Grand Renaissance Dam contributed by:

Courtesy: https://x.com/AbiyAhmedAli/status/1965453328567206123/photo/3

• Ethiopia officially inaugurated the $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on September 9, 2025.

• The GERD, Africa's largest hydroelectric dam, targets 5,000 megawatts of power and holds 74 billion cubic meters of water.

• The inauguration occurs amid persistent water security concerns from Egypt and Sudan regarding the dam's impact on Nile River flow.

A

fter more than a decade of construction, Ethiopia announced the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile,

approximately thirty kilometers from the Sudanese border.

Ethiopia officially inaugurated the $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) this Tuesday, September 9, 2025.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has become Africa's largest hydroelectric dam. It boasts a targeted production capacity of 5,000 megawatts and a reservoir of 74 billion cubic meters. Its commissioning will supply electricity to millions of Ethiopians while supporting the growth of key sectors like manufacturing and agriculture.

This inauguration occurs amidst persistent tensions with Egypt and Sudan. Since the project's launch in 2011, Cairo and Khartoum have expressed profound concerns about their water security. Egypt depends on the Nile for nearly 90% of its freshwater needs, particularly for agriculture.

water annually. Its needs, however, amount to approximately 114 billion. Cairo fears that uncoordinated reservoir filling could seriously compromise its supply.

Sudan, meanwhile, remains divided between support and mistrust. While the country recognizes the dam's potential benefits, it also worries about the project's consequences for its own downstream dams and agricultural areas.

In 2015, the three countries signed a declaration of principles. This committed them to reaching a mutually acceptable agreement.

Yet, Ethiopia unilaterally commenced the reservoir's filling in 2020. This process continued without a comprehensive compromise. The UN recommended in 2021 the resumption of negotiations under the African Union's aegis, but no significant progress has been recorded since.

This article was initially published in French by Ingrid Haffiny (intern) Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum

According to its Ministry of Water Resources, Egypt currently possesses less than 60 billion cubic meters of

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

19

Fuel Prices September 2025 Fuel Prices Update Petrol

NAMIBIA

SOUTH AFRICA

ANGOLA

NIGERIA

BOTSWANA

ZAMBIA

N$ 20.37/ US$ 1.17

Diesel

N$ 19.92/ US$ 1.16

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

R 21.14/ US$ 1.22

R 22.02/ US$ 1.27

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

Kz 300.00/ US$ 0.32

Kz 400.00/ US$ 0.43

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

₦ 861.25/ US$ 0.57

₦ 1018.75/ US$ 0.68

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

P 14.75/

P 14.94/ US$ 1.06

US$ 1.04

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

ZK 29.18/

ZK 25.02/ US$ 1.06

US$ 1.24

per litre Petrol Unleaded 95

per litre Diesel 50ppm

The US$ equivalent refers to current exchange rates (September 2025) Information available at the time of publication. Reliance on this information is not advised.

Data Source: Namibia: www.mme.gov.na, Botswana: www.bera.co.bw, Zambia: www.erb.org.zm, Others: theglobaleconomy.com

20

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

Namibia’s Onshore Kavango Basin Set for First Real Oil Assessment by End-November contributed by:

ReconAfrica’s Kavango West 1X well is drilling toward the Otavi reservoir, with first real results due by the end of November.

• Investor optimism is strong, with a C$19 m oversubscribed raise and shares up 54% from June lows on the Frankfurt exchange.

• Success would confirm Namibia’s onshore oil potential, complementing offshore finds by Shell and TotalEnergies.

T

he windfall well, Kavango West 1X, spud on July 31 and is now drilling toward the Otavi carbonate formation—its primary target. The company

anticipates reaching 3,800–4,250 m by the end of November, with drilling updates expected periodically before a full well result arrives around year-end.

For Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd., the Canadian explorer behind the project, the well represents the most consequential test yet of Namibia’s onshore Kavango Basin.

Earlier this year, the Naingopo well confirmed a working petroleum system but lacked commercial volumes, raising the stakes for this latest attempt. A positive outcome could validate years of geological modeling and place Namibia alongside Guyana as a frontier success story.

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

A Basin Under Scrutiny Netherland, Sewell & Associates has estimated 19.6 billion barrels of oil in place across ReconAfrica’s acreage, with 3.4 billion barrels of prospective resources in the Damara Fold Belt. For Kavango West 1X specifically, gross unrisked prospective resources are estimated at 346 million barrels of crude or 1.8 trillion cubic feet of gas, though risked figures are far smaller.

Some analysts remain cautious, pointing to the absence of independent updates beyond NSAI’s 2024 study.

Environmental groups warn of potential threats to the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and argue that water contamination could severely impact

21

ecosystems. ReconAfrica has denied rumours of fracking in Namibia, but scrutiny of its activities remains intense.

2030, with projections of up to 700,000 barrels per day in production if the projects proceed as planned.

Despite uncertainties, investors have shown strong backing.

In June 2025, ReconAfrica raised C$19 million in an oversubscribed equity financing, nearly double its initial target. The raise, supported by strategic partners such as BW Energy, allows the company to prioritize drilling while deferring seismic programs into 2026.

Onshore success would further diversify the country’s energy mix and reduce reliance on offshore majors. It could also cement Namibia’s status as Africa’s emerging oil frontier, attracting fresh capital while sparking debates over sustainability and resource governance.

Shares have rallied in step with drilling progress. On the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, ReconAfrica (ticker: 0XD) trades around €0.3765, up roughly 54% from its 52-week low in late June. The momentum suggests markets are pricing in optimism that November will bring a breakthrough.

Namibia’s Wider Oil Push The Kavango campaign complements a string of offshore successes that have already put Namibia on the global energy map. TotalEnergies’ Venus discovery and Shell’s Graff find, each estimated in the billions of barrels, have spurred new licensing rounds and attracted majors including Chevron. Namibia aims to produce its first oil by

The following eight weeks will be decisive. October marks the entry into the Otavi reservoir; by the end of November, the well is expected to reach its total depth. Comprehensive results are due at year-end. If the Kavango West 1X well proves commercially viable, ReconAfrica could proceed to appraisal drilling or court farm-out partners.

If not, investor enthusiasm may cool, but the data collected will still advance understanding of one of Africa’s most closely watched basins. For now, both investors and policymakers are counting down to November, when Namibia will learn whether the Kavango Basin is a promise or a proven prize. idriss Linge

Courtesy: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fca.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Freconnaissance-energy-africaltd&psig=AOvVaw1tcbzeFrNa4nlZBva1Alqa&ust=1758617674765000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBgQjhxqFwoTCKjTx97_648DFQAAAAAdAAAAABAL

22

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

POWER CONSUMPTION Stove/Oven 4000 Watts = 17.39 Ampere 5000 Watts = 21.74 Ampere 8000 Watts = 34.78 Ampere

Geyser 150 L 3000 Watts = 13.04 Ampere 100 L 2000 Watts = 8.70 Ampere

Kettle 2200 Watts = 9.57 Ampere

Hot Plate 2000 Watts = 8.70 Ampere

Hairdryer 1800 Watts = 7.83 Ampere

Microwave 900 Watts = 3.91 Ampere

Deep-freeze 210 L 30 Watts = 0.13 Ampere 300 L 50 Watts = 0.22 Ampere

Refrigerator 300 L 35 Watts = 0.15 Ampere

Computer 300 Watts = 1.30 Ampere

Incandescent Light Bulb 40 Watts = 0.17 Ampere 60 Watts = 0.26 Ampere 100 Watts = 43 Ampere

Energy Saver (Incandescent Light Bulb) 40 w 5 Watts = 0.02 Ampere 60w 11 Watts = 0.05 Ampere 75w 14 Watts = 0.06 Ampere 100w 20 Watts = 0.09 Ampere

Television 70 Watts = 0.30 Ampere

Decoder 30 Watts = 0.13 Ampere

DVD Player

9 Watts = 0.04 Ampere

Radio 6 Watts = 0.03 Ampere

Washing Machine 2000 Watts = 8.70 Ampere

Heater 2000 Watts = 8.70 Ampere

Dryer 2000 Watts = 8.70 Ampere

Source: Erongo RED (https://www.erongored.com/consumtion-index/)

NAMIBIA DAM LEVELS UPDATE (September 2025)

Dam's Full Capacity (in Mm3)

Present Volume September 2025 (in Mm3)

100

1000

80 800

600

400

40

200

20

H ar da p

N ec ka rt al

0

0 N Sw au te ak op po or t Vo n Ba O ch lu sh an dj O a m O ar m ur at u ak D o el ta D am O an ob D re O ih tji uk ve ro M O ai tji n ve ro Si lt Fr ie O d m en at au je nn e D am G or ea ng Ti ab ld a Vi ljo en Bo nd D el aa s n Vi ljo en

Water Volume (in Mm3)

60

Name of Reservoir Author’s analysis and representation of NamWater’s weekly dam bulletin - dated 15 September 2025

DEFICIT 17.3%

CAPACITY

1556.71 Mm3

According to records by NamWater’s weekly Dam Bulletins, Namibia has a total Reservoir capacity of 1556.71 million cubic meters (Mm3), whose present volumes stand at 1287.98 Mm3 (or 82.7%). This means that the country’s water deficit is currently 268.73 Mm3 (or 17.3%).

84.2% Present % of Full Capacity 18 August 2025

82.7% Present % of Full Capacity 15 September 2025

AVAILABILITY 82.7%

SOURCE: RDJ CONSULTING SERVICES CC

Natural Disasters Cost Africa $12.7 bln in Infrastructure Losses each year (CDRI) contributed by:

telecommunications, transport, energy, ports, airports, and oil and gas facilities, as well as to residential, commercial, health, and educational buildings.

Losses to infrastructure are estimated at $1.83 billion per year, while damages to buildings reach $10.87 billion.

Energy assets are the most affected, with average yearly damages of $844 million, followed by telecommunications ($418 million) and roads and railways ($282 million).

Regional disparities are significant. East Africa suffers the highest annual losses, at $5.49 billion, followed by North Africa ($2.31 billion), Southern Africa ($2.31 billion), West Africa ($1.58 billion), and Central Africa ($1 billion).

Nationally, South Africa records average yearly losses of $1.7 billion, Nigeria $1.1 billion, and Algeria $1 billion.

Smaller countries, while experiencing lower absolute losses, face relatively greater economic impacts. Annual losses represent 1.5% of GDP in Lesotho, 1.25% in Mauritius, and 1% in the Comoros.

Floods are the most destructive natural hazard, accounting for 68.7% of losses, followed by earthquakes at 27.7%.

Cyclones (1.6%), tsunamis (1.4%), and landslides (0.5%) make up the remainder.

Disasters cause $12.7 bln in yearly damages to African buildings and infrastructure.

Floods account for nearly 69% of losses, with energy and telecoms most affected.

South Africa, Nigeria, and Algeria face the highest annual losses at national level.

N

atural disasters inflict an average of $12.7 billion in damages each year on infrastructure across Africa, according to a report released September 8

by the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

Titled Infrastructure Resilience in Africa, the report covers damages from earthquakes, floods, cyclones, storms, and landslides to infrastructure such as water systems,

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

The CDRI warns that climate change could increase Africa’s disaster-related losses by 27% in the coming years. While African governments finance 26% of adaptation efforts from national budgets and borrow for an additional 54%, the report stresses that these efforts are insufficient without stronger support from wealthy nations, development finance institutions, and multilateral lenders.

Improving resilience, it notes, requires not only building new assets to withstand climate and geological risks but also proactive planning. This includes regular maintenance, preparedness strategies based on reliable data, early warning systems, and closer coordination between disaster management agencies, meteorological services, and research institutions.

25

30 YEARS OF MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THE ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY RELATED SECTORS! As RDJ Consulting we pride ourselves as specialised consultants who provide advisory services, market data and studies, due diligence and offer world class training within our core business area. Collaboration forms an intergral part in what we do and for this year, we are making it a priority.

OUR FOOTPRINT Asia Britain Caribbean Southern Africa USA Our innovative strategies are baked daily at 40 Copper Street, Prosperita, Windhoek, Namibia.

Contact us today to discover how our unique services add value to your business!

+264 81 750 3002 info@rdjconsulting.co.za www.rdjconsulting.co.za

Solar Energy Production

Executive Spotlight Spotlight on Mr. Fabian Shaanika Interview by Ms. Silpa Kanghono (Coordinator: Digital Marketing and Events- RDJ Publishing)

W

elcome to the Executive Spotlight Series, where we engage with forward-thinking industry leaders who are driving innovation and shaping the future.

Today, we are honoured to feature Mr. Fabian Shaanika, the visionary Managing Director of Kelp Blue Namibia. With extensive expertise in the Blue Economy and marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR), Mr. Shaanika offers invaluable local insights and a unique perspective.

1) Can you describe your executive role?

As Managing Director of Kelp Blue Namibia, I oversee the end-to-end cultivation and processing of Macrocystis pyrifera, or giant kelp, into high value bioproducts. This includes developing offshore kelp forests near Lüderitz, managing harvesting and processing technologies, and ensuring our products like StimBlue+, a biostimulant for agriculture meet both global quality standards and Namibia’s requirements. My role also requires balancing research partnerships, regulatory compliance, and commercial market development to create a robust new bioeconomy sector for Namibia. I balance the technical realities of building a new industry with the responsibility of ensuring it benefits Namibia’s people and ecosystems.

2) Where does it derive its mandate?

Our mandate derives from Kelp Blue’s founding mission: to revolutionize seaweed cultivation as a tool for climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable economic development.

Specifically in Namibia, our license agreements with government authorities grant us the right to establish offshore kelp forests, and with that comes the responsibility to ensure that our activities generate environmental, social, and financial returns in line with Namibia’s sustainable development goals.

Our mandate is twofold: from the Namibian government, through formal licensing to cultivate kelp forests offshore, and from society at large, which urgently needs solutions to climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity.

This mandate is strengthened by Namibia’s national goals of diversifying its economy, reducing reliance on extractive industries, and developing sustainable, knowledge-based sectors. Globally, our work aligns with urgent needs for carbon sequestration, climate adaptation, and sustainable agriculture inputs.

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

29

3) What is the Vision, Mission and Value proposition of the organisation that you lead?

5) What aspect of your sector keeps you awake at night?

Our Vision is abundance: we envision healthier oceans, stronger communities and sustainable industries.

While kelp forests grow extraordinarily fast - up to 50 cm per day under ideal conditions, we need to build processing and distribution infrastructure at equal speed. Additionally, we are breaking new ground in quantifying the carbon sequestration capability of kelp forests. Very, very important is ensuring that Namibia has the appropriate and progressive regulatory environment. What keeps me awake is ensuring we don’t lose momentum, because the stakes are high: climate, jobs, food security, and the health of our planet.

Our Mission is to harness giant kelp as a catalyst for positive change - absorbing CO₂, restoring marine ecosystems, and producing bioproducts that serve agriculture, industry, and human health.

Our Value Proposition is holistic: we deliver the “4 Returns” inspiration, natural capital, social capital, and financial capital. This means creating jobs in Lüderitz, building skills for young Namibians, regenerating ecosystems, and delivering returns to investors who believe in long-term impact.

4) As a mentor, what are some of the key attributes you bring to leading your organisation?

I believe in leading with purpose and integrity. Transparency, adaptability, and resilience are the qualities I bring to Kelp Blue. In such a pioneering industry, uncertainty is part of our daily reality, so I encourage my team to view challenges as opportunities for innovation. I also encourage resilience: pioneering a new industry inevitably involves trial and error, and the ability to learn from experiments is vital. Equally, I see mentorship as a two-way street: empowering young Namibian professionals while also learning from their perspectives. Promoting diversity and inclusion is centralwe’re proud that nearly half of our team are women and that 95% are local hires.

30

6) What has been your proudest moment to date leading the organisation?

There have been many milestones, but the proudest for me is seeing the young Kelp Blue team – the average age of our 80 plus workforce is below 30- deliver well over 200 tons of production in the first half of this year. From a scientific perspective, seeing the results of our kelp extracts in farmer trials was a breakthrough. StimBlue+ not only improved germination and root development but also showed resilience effects under drought stress. Environmentally, witnessing marine life return to our kelp beds off Lüderitz was a confirmation that we are regenerating ecosystems while building new industries.

The impact of our company is also visibly felt in the town of Luderitz due to the direct and indirect employmet that we create. Together, these moments validate the impact of our work: scientific innovation, ecological restoration and social impact.

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

Spotlight on Mr. Stephen Dihwa Interview by Ms. Silpa Kanghono (Coordinator: Digital Marketing and Events- RDJ Publishing)

Image: Eng. Stephen Dihwa and our Editor, David Jarrett

W

elcome to the Executive Spotlight Series, a platform where we engage with visionary industry leaders who are driving innovation and shaping the future of

energy and infrastructure across the region.

In this edition, we are honoured to feature Eng. Stephen Dihwa, Executive Director of the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) Coordination Centre. Eng. Dihwa brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in key positions across the SADC region, including with the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), as Senior Manager for Planning and Renewable Energy at NamPower in Namibia, and as System Planning Advisor for Electricidade de Moçambique (EdM) in Mozambique.

Most recently, SAPP made a notable contribution to the G20 Energy Transition Working Group (ETWG) side events held on 30 July 2025.

Eng. Dihwa participated as a panellist in the session titled, Bridging Borders – The Regulatory Path to Regional Power Integration, while the Chief Engineer for Planning and Operations took part in a panel on, Energy Planning & Principles.

The G20 ETWG serves as a significant platform for advancing South Africa's agenda, focusing on energy poverty, renewable energy corridors in Africa, and promoting clean hydrogen.

1. Can you describe your executive role at the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP)?

My role is to ensure that there is adequate and up to date coordination of planning (including project preparation), operations, electricity trading and environmental management aspects of the power sector in the 12 mainland states of SADC. I run the daily activities of the power pool including being the market operator for the competitive regional electricity market.

2. Where does SAPP derive its mandate, and how does it align with broader regional energy frameworks such as those of SADC and the African Union?

SAPP derives its mandate from an Inter-Governmental Memorandum of Understanding (IGMOU) signed by the SADC Ministers responsible for Energy for the 12 countries, allowing the electricity undertakings in these countries to form an association as a power pool. The organisational structure is such that the highest committee of SAPP (the Executive Committee) reports to the SADC Secretariat through the Directorate of Infrastructure. This ensures alignment with the SADC energy activities. Reporting the African Union goes through the SADC Secretariat.

3. What is the Vision, Mission and Value Proposition of the Southern African Power Pool and how does the organisation uniquely contribute to the energy transition in Southern Africa?

SAPP Vision: To be a fully integrated, competitive energy market and a provider of sustainable energy solutions for the SADC region and beyond.

SAPP Mission Statement: To provide energy associated services in the region and beyond.

SAPP Values Customer Centric - the internal and external customer is central to the way we conduct ourselves

Courtesy:RDJ Consulting

32

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

Courtesy:RDJ Consulting

Innovation - we have a culture where people are permitted to experiment Teamwork - we work together in unity Reliability - we are consistent in the delivery of the services we provide Integrity - we conduct our business with fairness and transparency SAPP uniquely contributes to the energy transition in Southern Africa by ensuring that there is a regional master plan that identifies priority generation and transmission projects, preparing the bankability of the projects through feasibility studies and sourcing for financing for the projects. SAPP also ensures that the interconnected regional grid is operated in a reliable manner and that electricity including renewable energy is traded in a transparent manner.

4. With your extensive experience in various national utilities and now at a regional level, what key leadership and mentoring qualities have you brought into your role at SAPP? I have brought into SAPP an awareness of the resources that are in the power utilities and how these can be harnessed to addressed regional electricity integration, an understanding of the challenges being faced by the utilities and thus influence policy changes at regional level through SADC. My experience in a

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

development bank has brought knowledge on how to prepare power projects towards bankability and how to attract appropriate funding for the projects. My experience in the Ministry of Energy provides leverage on policy issues and regulatory aspects that utilities need to influence to improve their operations.

5. What is that one aspect of the energy sector keeps you awake at night and why?

One aspect of the energy sector that keeps me awake is the integration of intermittent renewable energies into the interconnected regional grid is such a manner that grid reliability and stability are maintained at all times.

6. Reflecting on your leadership journey, what had been your proudest moment to date leading SAPP, particularly in the light of your recent participation in the G20 Energy Transition Working Group?

My proudest moment has been the recognition by other stakeholders that regional energy integration as demonstrated by the Southern African Power Pool is critical to energy transition in the region and in Africa.

33

Meet the Team GRACE KANGOTUE

Where Economics Meets Sustainability

34

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

W

ith a sharp mind for strategy and a heart for sustainability, Grace Kangotue is the powerhouse behind research at RDJ Consulting. As Chief

Researcher, she leads high-impact projects across climate change, renewable energy, and sustainability reporting, delivering data-driven insights that shape smarter decisions.

Armed with a Bachelor of Economics (Honours) and pursuing her MSc in Development Finance from the University of Namibia, Grace’s career spans investment management, compliance, fundraising, and now, energy research. From launching her career at Old Mutual to driving donor strategies at Impact Tank, she’s carved out a path defined by resilience and results.

Since joining RDJ in 2023, Grace has risen through the ranks - starting as a Research Trainee and becoming Chief Researcher in under a year. Her work doesn’t stop there: she also serves as Deputy Editor for RDJ Publishing House and moonlights as a Sales Development Consultant. In 2025, Grace was selected for the prestigious GWNET “Energising Women to Advance the Energy Transition” programme, representing Namibia in a mission to elevate female voices in the energy space.

Grace is more than a researcher - she’s a changemaker on a mission to innovate, lead, and inspire in the evolving world of energy and sustainability.

1.What inspired your journey into economics and research?

My journey into economics and research was inspired by a lifelong interest in social issues. Since childhood, I have been curious about how low-income households make strategic economic decisions with limited resources while still supporting those around them. This curiosity drove me to pursue a career focused on finding sustainable solutions to social challenges. Over time, learning about the impacts of climate change and the potential of renewable energy to both mitigate these effects and create economic opportunities deepened my commitment. This ultimately led me to focus on the energy sector, where I can combine my economic expertise with a passion for protecting the environment and advancing sustainable development.

2.What has been your proudest moment or most significant achievement in your role so far?

While there are several achievements, I am proud of, some I cannot disclose due to the confidential nature of our

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

35

consulting work. That said, my proudest achievement to date has been the Puros Solar Mini-Grid project, aimed at electrifying the community of Puros in Kunene, Namibia, under the Towards an Inclusive Design of the Renewable Energy Transition (TIDRET) Project. Although the project is still underway, I am proud of the work RDJ Consulting has contributed to the overall project, from stakeholder engagement to feasibility studies and now the implementation. Knowing that our efforts will soon provide clean electricity and support improved health, education, and economic opportunities for the community is incredibly rewarding.

where I can contribute to this area. For instance, in my previous roles I would assist audits preparations and in other instances perform financial modelling for social impact ventures, even though I do not hold a formal qualification in accounting. Ultimately, this reflects my broader passion for using analytical and financial skills to strengthen projects and create real impact.

3.What excites you the most about being an economist, and how does that passion show up in your daily work?

I would like my legacy to be fact-based, well-informed renewable energy projects that truly reach Namibia’s most remote communities. With solid data and informed advisory, we can design projects that are not only effective but also easy to replicate, extending their impact far beyond a single site. This will help make electricity services accessible to everyone, support environmental sustainability, and drive economic prosperity across Namibia.

What excites me most about being an economist is the opportunity to contribute to projects that provide informed solutions to interconnected social, economic, and environmental challenges. This passion manifests in my daily work through rigorous research, meaningful engagement with diverse stakeholders, and ensuring that the advice and services we provide to our clients are evidence-based, independent, and contribute to the broader public good. I take particular satisfaction in knowing that the insights I help generate can inform decisions that create positive, tangible impacts on society.

6.What legacy or impact do you hope to leave through your work as a Chief Researcher and Economist?

4.Is there a particular book, economist, or thinker who has greatly influenced your approach to economics and research?

Yes, my approach to economics and research has been strongly influenced by the works of Antoine Augustin Cournot and Joseph Bertrand. Their contributions to understanding market and firm behaviour, particularly in the context of competition and strategic decision-making, have shaped the way I analyse economic dynamics.

5.If you weren’t an economist, what other career paths might you have pursued and why?

If I weren’t an economist, I believe I would have pursued a career as a financial accountant. My interest in this field began in Grade 8 when I was first introduced to the principles of accounting. I enjoy supporting projects

36

www.rdjpublishing.africa

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

Tenders

Namport Description: RFQ Topographic and LiDAR Survey of the Oil and Gas Terminal in the Port of Walvis Bay. Closing date: 29 September 2025 https://www.namport.com.na/procurement/request-for-quotations/783/ Electricity Control Board (ECB) Description: Pre-qualification of suppliers/service providers for goods, works and non-consultancy services for FY 2025/2026.

Closing date: 06 October 2025 https://www.ecb.org.na/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Advert-template-Inivitation-of-pre-qualification-procurement14.08.2025-draft-lvw.pdf Development Bank of Namibia Description: Request for Proposal for Monitoring and Evaluation for the National Mentoring and Coaching Programme for a period of 4 months (SC/RFP/DBN -1112025).

Closing date: 10 October 2025 at 10h00 AM https://www.dbn.com.na/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Procurement-of-Monitoring-and-Evaluation-for-the-NationalMentoring-and-Coaching-Programme-for-a-period-of-4-months-re.pdf NamPower Description: Provision of professional services for upgrading a NamPower Warehouse into a fully fletched Records Management Centre.

Closing date: 17 October 2025 at 10H00 Namibian Time https://www.nampower.com.na/Bid.aspx?id=282239 Namdeb Diamond Corporation (Pty) Ltd (Namdeb) Description: Invitation to Tender for the Provision of Corrosion Protection, Cladding and Scaffolding Services.

Compulsory Physical Site Inspection: 13 Oct 2025 Closing date: 04 November 2025 at 16H00 https://namdeb.com/opportunities/tender-eoi/

InFocus NAMIBIA AN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY OVERVIEW

www.rdjpublishing.africa

37

Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE September 2025 Scatec pioneers industrial Electric Vehicle adoption on-site in the Northern Cape.

Leading renewable energy company Scatec has announced solid progress in its South African electric vehicle (EV) pilot project, demonstrating the practical and cost-effective use of EVs in remote, industrial settings. In partnership with local EV-as-a-Service company, Everlectric, the initiative is a core component of Scatec's global commitment to working towards achieving net-zero emissions.

"Scatec is committed to achieving net-zero emissions across all our global operations by 2040," says Sean McGibbon, Supply Chain Manager for Scatec. The EV pilot project forms part of a series of net-zero initiatives implemented by the Company to reduce emissions across its own operations and supply chain.

"This pilot, running in Kenhardt and Upington, is a key step towards that goal. We're not only proving that electric mobility can work in challenging conditions, but we're also gaining valuable local insights that will help us build more viable and cost-effective solutions than fossil fuel alternatives."

The project aligns with a growing global trend where industrial sectors are embracing electric mobility. This shift is being driven by a combination of factors, including the need to meet national climate goals, the desire for energy independence, and the increasing availability of affordable, robust EV models.

In South Africa, government policies like the EV White Paper and its associated tax incentives are further accelerating this transition by promoting local EV infrastructure development.

Scatec's pilot, which uses two EV Pick-ups and one panel van, has already demonstrated that with clever scheduling and charging stations, EVs can be seamlessly integrated into day-to-day operations with minimal disruption.

"Our tests have shown that an electric vehicle can be used in our day-to-day operations with limited changes to our daily behaviour," McGibbon adds. "What excites us is the positive change this brings to our planet. Our ambition is to roll out pilots in all our core markets by the end of 2027, with a target of full electrification of our operational fleets by 2030, where it is practical and possible."

Everlectric, Scatec's partner in the project, provides an innovative "Electric Vehicles as a Service" model that removes common barriers to EV adoption, such as high upfront costs and infrastructure uncertainty. This model offers full-maintenance leasing, charging infrastructure, and smart fleet management in a single package.

"Everlectric is excited to continue our partnership with Scatec," says Ndia Magadagela, CEO of Everlectric. "This new electric vehicle rollout represents a powerful convergence of clean energy and sustainable mobility in two traditionally high-emission and hard-to-decarbonise sectors: energy generation and transportation. This project will allow us to close the loop on clean energy by ensuring that both your energy generation and consumption are 100% renewable and emission-free."

Operating in remote South African locations, Everlectric has tailored its approach to meet the unique challenges of the terrain.

"We prioritise robust panel vans and commercial EVs with higher ground clearance and reinforced suspension. In areas with limited grid access, we deploy solar-assisted charging stations and work with partners like Scatec to maximise the opportunity to utilise off-grid solutions,” Magadagela adds.

Both Scatec and Everlectric believe that the success of this pilot project demonstrates that electric mobility is not an impossible task, even in a small Northern Cape town. By leading the charge, they are proving a strong commitment to carbon neutrality and paving the way for wider industrial adoption.

"Through our ongoing collaboration with Scatec, we have found that fit-for-purpose electric vehicles are exceptionally well aligned with the demands of these operations," Magadagela concludes. "Electric vehicles continue to demonstrate their reliability and energy efficiency, proving to be a strong and sustainable alternative to combustionpowered vehicles." /ends

References https://www.thedtic.gov.za/wp-content/uploads/Revised-EV-White-Paper.pdf About Scatec Scatec is a leading renewable energy solutions provider, accelerating access to reliable and affordable clean energy in emerging markets.

As a long-term player, we develop, build, own, and operate renewable energy plants, with 6.2 GW in operation and under construction across five continents today.

We are committed to growing our renewable energy capacity, delivered by our passionate employees and partners who are driven by a common vision of ‘Improving our Future’.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. For more information, visit www.scatec.com About Everlectric Everlectric, a South African start-up that is revolutionizing the future of mobility with a mission to make it clean, inclusive, and economically viable.

Everlectric addresses the barriers businesses face in decarbonizing their fleets—such as high upfront costs, infrastructure uncertainty, and range anxiety. Our innovative Electric Vehicles as a Service (EVaaS) model provides full-maintenance leasing, charging infrastructure, and smart fleet management in one seamless package.

This approach supports South Africa’s Just Energy Transition goals while accelerating the shift to zero-emission transport, creating jobs, and reducing operational costs for our clients. With aspirations to lead commercial EV adoption in Southern Africa, Everlectric is driving a future where electric fleets are the norm, sustainability is a competitive advantage, and Africa takes a leadership role in clean mobility.

For more information, visit www.everelectric.co.za Issued by Alkemi Collective on behalf of Scatec

CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

NICOLE FELIX CHIEF DESIGNER (LAYOUT AND DESIGN) @RDJ PUBLISHING

DAVID JARRETT EDITOR IN CHIEF AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER @RDJ GROUP

SILPA KANGHONO COORDINATOR: DIGITAL MARKETING AND EVENTS @RDJ PUBLISHING

LAHJA AMAAMBO CONTRIBUTING AUTHOR @RDJ GROUP

PUBLISHED BY:

GRACE KANGOTUE CHIEF RESEARCHER/ECONOMIST EDITOR @ RDJ CONSULTING

CHILOMBO OLGA PRISCILA CONTRIBUTING AUTHOR @RDJ GROUP

RESEARCH BY:

RENEE JARRETT EXECUTIVE - ADMINISTRATION @RDJ GROUP

PRINTED BY:

ISSN 2026-9080

Want to Get Noticed?

We’ve Got You Covered.

Whether you're launching a product, promoting a service or building awareness, advertising in our publication gives you premium visibility in a space designed to spotlight the best.

Book Your Advert Today! +264 81 750 3010 info@rdjpublishing.africa