From Policy to Action: 2022 - 2031
From Green Deal to Trade Barrier: The European CBAM Shock for Africa
City of Windhoek Launches Zero Emissions and Zero Car Week with First Public EV Charging Port
Cross-border trading is growing
Ethiopia Inaugurates Grand Renaissance Dam
Namibia’s Onshore Kavango Basin Set for First Real Oil Assessment by EndNovember
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 accuracycannotbeguaranteed.
N A M I B I A
(2023)
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (nominal terms) (2024)
NAMIBIA INSHORE AND (EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE)
EEZ WATER SURFACE (2022) NAMIBIAN AGRICULTURE, FISHING
(2024)
LENDING RATE (Aug 2025)
(CPI) (Aug 2025)
672
Namibia'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.
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.
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
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
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
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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.
The 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.
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
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
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
Policy Announcement - April (Published 13 August 2025)
SOURCE: HTTPS://GH2NAMIBIA.COM/MEDIA-AND-DOWNLOADS/
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.
Transmission 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
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).
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
The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) issues licenses for electricity trading. Zambia's Electricity Act (2019) requires ministerial approval for electricity imports or exports,
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.
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
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
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• 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.
After 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
According to its Ministry of Water Resources, Egypt currently possesses less than 60 billion cubic meters of
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
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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.
The 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.
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
ecosystems. ReconAfrica has denied rumours of fracking in Namibia, but scrutiny of its activities remains intense.
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.
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.
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
2030, with projections of up to 700,000 barrels per day in production if the projects proceed as planned.
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.
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
Source: Erongo RED (https://www erongored com/consumtion-index/)
2025)
Author’s analysis and representation of NamWater’s weekly dam bulletin - dated 15 September 2025
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%)
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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.
Natural 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,
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
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.
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elcome to the Executive Spotlight Series, where we engage with forward-thinking industry leaders who aredrivinginnovationandshapingthefuture.
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?
AsManagingDirectorof Kelp Blue Namibia,Ioverseetheend-to-end cultivationandprocessingof Macrocystis pyrifera,orgiantkelp,into high value bioproducts This includes developing offshore kelp forests near Lüderitz, managing harvesting and processing technologies, and ensuring our products like StimBlue+, a biostimulantforagriculturemeetbothglobalqualitystandardsand 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 Ibalancethetechnicalrealitiesofbuildinganewindustry withtheresponsibilityofensuringitbenefitsNamibia’speopleand 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 authoritiesgrantustherighttoestablishoffshorekelpforests,and with that comes the responsibility to ensure that our activities generate environmental, social, and financial returns in line with Namibia’ssustainabledevelopmentgoals
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, biodiversityloss,andfoodinsecurity
This mandate is strengthened by Namibia’s national goals of diversifyingitseconomy,reducingrelianceonextractiveindustries, anddevelopingsustainable,knowledge-basedsectors Globally,our work aligns with urgent needs for carbon sequestration, climate adaptation,andsustainableagricultureinputs.
3) What is the Vision, Mission and Value proposition of the organisation that you lead?
Our Vision is abundance: we envision healthier oceans, stronger communitiesandsustainableindustries
OurMissionistoharnessgiantkelpasacatalystforpositivechange - absorbing CO₂, restoring marine ecosystems, and producing bioproductsthatserveagriculture,industry,andhumanhealth.
Our Value Proposition is holistic: we deliver the “4 Returns”inspiration,naturalcapital,socialcapital,andfinancialcapital.This meanscreatingjobsinLüderitz,buildingskillsforyoungNamibians, regenerating ecosystems, and delivering returns to investors who believeinlong-termimpact.
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 suchapioneeringindustry,uncertaintyispartofourdailyreality,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: empoweringyoungNamibianprofessionalswhilealsolearningfrom their perspectives. Promoting diversity and inclusion is centralwe’re proud that nearly half of our team are women and that 95% arelocalhires.
5) What aspect of your sector keeps you awake at night?
While kelp forests grow extraordinarily fast - up to 50 cm per day underidealconditions,weneedtobuildprocessinganddistribution 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 meawakeisensuringwedon’tlosemomentum,becausethestakes arehigh:climate,jobs,foodsecurity,andthehealthofourplanet
6) What has been your proudest moment to date leading the organisation?
Therehavebeenmanymilestones,buttheproudestformeisseeing theyoungKelpBlueteam–theaverageageofour80plusworkforce isbelow30-deliverwellover200tonsofproductioninthefirsthalf of this year From a scientific perspective, seeing the results of our kelpextractsinfarmertrialswasabreakthrough StimBlue+ notonly improved germination and root development but also showed resilienceeffectsunderdroughtstress Environmentally,witnessing marine life return to our kelp beds off Lüderitz was a confirmation thatweareregeneratingecosystemswhilebuildingnewindustries TheimpactofourcompanyisalsovisiblyfeltinthetownofLuderitz duetothedirectandindirectemploymetthatwecreate.Together, these moments validate the impact of our work: scientific innovation,ecologicalrestorationandsocialimpact.
elcome to the Executive Spotlight Series, a platform whereweengagewithvisionaryindustryleaderswho aredrivinginnovationandshapingthefutureof energyandinfrastructureacrosstheregion.
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 SeniorManagerforPlanningandRenewableEnergyat NamPower in Namibia, and as System Planning Advisor for Electricidade de Moçambique (EdM) inMozambique
Mostrecently, SAPP madeanotablecontributiontotheG20 Energy Transition Working Group (ETWG) side events held on 30 July 2025 Eng Dihwaparticipatedasapanellistinthesessiontitled, Bridging Borders – The Regulatory Path to Regional Power Integration, while theChiefEngineerforPlanningandOperationstookpartinapanel on,EnergyPlanning&Principles
The G20 ETWG serves as a significant platform for advancing South Africa's agenda, focusing on energy poverty, renewable energy corridorsinAfrica,andpromotingcleanhydrogen.
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 coordinationofplanning(includingprojectpreparation),operations, electricity trading and environmental management aspects of the power sector in the 12 mainland states of SADC. I run the daily activitiesofthepowerpoolincludingbeingthemarketoperatorfor thecompetitiveregionalelectricitymarket.
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?
SAPPderivesitsmandatefroman Inter-Governmental Memorandum of Understanding (IGMOU) signed by the SADC Ministers responsible forEnergyforthe12countries,allowingtheelectricityundertakings in these countries to form an association as a power pool The organisationalstructureissuchthatthehighestcommitteeof SAPP (the Executive Committee) reports to the SADC Secretariat through the Directorate of Infrastructure This ensures alignment with the SADC energyactivities Reportingthe African Union goesthroughthe 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:Tobeafullyintegrated,competitiveenergymarketand a provider of sustainable energy solutions for the SADC region and beyond
SAPP Mission Statement: To provide energy associated services in theregionandbeyond
SAPP Values
CustomerCentric-theinternalandexternalcustomeriscentral tothewayweconductourselves
Courtesy:RDJ Consulting
Innovation - we have a culture where people are permitted to experiment Teamwork-weworktogetherinunity
Reliability - we are consistent in the delivery of the services we provide Integrity - we conduct our business with fairness and transparency
SAPP uniquelycontributestotheenergytransitionin 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 thatelectricityincludingrenewableenergyistradedinatransparent 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 regionallevelthrough SADC Myexperienceina
developmentbankhasbroughtknowledgeonhowtopreparepower projectstowardsbankabilityandhowtoattractappropriatefunding for the projects My experience in the Ministry of Energy provides leverageonpolicyissuesandregulatoryaspectsthatutilitiesneedto influencetoimprovetheiroperations
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 andstabilityaremaintainedatalltimes.
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 theSouthernAfricanPowerPooliscriticaltoenergytransitioninthe regionandinAfrica.
With 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
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
3.What excites you the most about being an economist, and how does that passion show up in your daily work?
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.
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
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.
6.What legacy or impact do you hope to leave through your work as a Chief Researcher and Economist?
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.
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/
September2025
ScatecpioneersindustrialElectricVehicleadoptionon-siteintheNorthernCape.
LeadingrenewableenergycompanyScatechasannouncedsolidprogressinitsSouthAfricanelectricvehicle(EV) pilotproject,demonstratingthepracticalandcost-effectiveuseofEVsinremote,industrialsettings Inpartnership withlocalEV-as-a-Servicecompany,Everlectric,theinitiativeisacorecomponentofScatec'sglobalcommitment toworkingtowardsachievingnet-zeroemissions
"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 implementedbytheCompanytoreduceemissionsacrossitsownoperationsandsupplychain
"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"
Theprojectalignswithagrowingglobaltrendwhereindustrialsectorsareembracingelectricmobility Thisshiftis beingdrivenbyacombinationoffactors,includingtheneedtomeetnationalclimategoals,thedesireforenergy independence,andtheincreasingavailabilityofaffordable,robustEVmodels.
In South Africa, government policies like the EV White Paper and its associated tax incentives are further acceleratingthistransitionbypromotinglocalEVinfrastructuredevelopment.
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 removescommonbarrierstoEVadoption,suchashighupfrontcostsandinfrastructureuncertainty Thismodel offersfull-maintenanceleasing,charginginfrastructure,andsmartfleetmanagementinasinglepackage
"Everlectric is excited to continue our partnership with Scatec," saysNdiaMagadagela,CEOofEverlectric "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"
OperatinginremoteSouthAfricanlocations,Everlectrichastailoreditsapproachtomeettheuniquechallengesof theterrain
"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,” Magadagelaadds.
BothScatecandEverlectricbelievethatthesuccessofthispilotprojectdemonstratesthatelectricmobilityisnot an impossible task, even in a small Northern Cape town. By leading the charge, they are proving a strong commitmenttocarbonneutralityandpavingthewayforwiderindustrialadoption.
"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"
References
https://wwwthedticgovza/wp-content/uploads/Revised-EV-White-Paperpdf
AboutScatec
Scatec is a leading renewable energy solutions provider, accelerating access to reliable and affordable clean energyinemergingmarkets
Asalong-termplayer,wedevelop,build,own,andoperaterenewableenergyplants,with62GWinoperationand underconstructionacrossfivecontinentstoday
Wearecommittedtogrowingourrenewableenergycapacity,deliveredbyourpassionateemployeesandpartners whoaredrivenbyacommonvisionof ‘Improving our Future’.
This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities TradingAct.
Formoreinformation,visitwww.scatec.com
AboutEverlectric
Everlectric,aSouthAfricanstart-upthatisrevolutionizingthefutureofmobilitywithamissiontomakeitclean, inclusive,andeconomicallyviable.
Everlectric addresses the barriers businesses face in decarbonizing their fleets such as high upfront costs, infrastructureuncertainty,andrangeanxiety OurinnovativeElectricVehiclesasaService(EVaaS)modelprovides full-maintenanceleasing,charginginfrastructure,andsmartfleetmanagementinoneseamlesspackage
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 competitiveadvantage,andAfricatakesaleadershiproleincleanmobility
Formoreinformation,visitwwweverelectriccoza
IssuedbyAlkemiCollectiveonbehalfofScatec
DAVID JARRETT
EDITORINCHIEFAND CHIEFEXECUTIVEOFFICER
@RDJGROUP
NICOLE FELIX CHIEFDESIGNER (LAYOUTANDDESIGN) @RDJPUBLISHING
SILPA KANGHONO COORDINATOR:DIGITALMARKETINGAND EVENTS
@RDJPUBLISHING
LAHJA AMAAMBO CONTRIBUTINGAUTHOR @RDJGROUP
GRACE KANGOTUE CHIEFRESEARCHER/ECONOMIST EDITOR @RDJCONSULTING
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