For the first time since its founding in 1982, the Association of International Energy Negotiators (AIEN) has elected an African and a Namibian as its global president.
Shakwa Nyambe, a legal expert in energy and natural resources, now represents over 3 000 professionals from around the world in shaping energy contract standards and negotiations.
Speaking after his courtesy visit to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah last week at State House, Nyambe described his appointment as both a personal and continental milestone.
“This is not only good for Namibia but also good for Africa. It makes Namibia an African voice at the table of this global organisation,” he said.
Nyambe is the managing partner at SNC Incorporated, a law firm specialising in oil and gas law.
His election as AIEN president was confirmed on 9 June 2025 in Turkey, voted in by the association’s board and members.
AIEN is a Houston-based non-profit that develops model contracts—like joint operating agreements and drilling contracts—used globally in energy negotiations. It also offers training and networking opportunities for negotiators, lawyers, engineers and other energy professionals.
During the meeting, President Nandi-Ndaitwah warmly welcomed Nyambe and praised his achievement.
“She was very happy about this achievement because it’s a profile for the country,” he said.
Nyambe briefed the President on how Namibia can benefit from his new role and the tools available through AIEN.
“We can assist the country using the tools we have as an association to enhance the effectiveness of negotiators, and build skills in drafting contracts,” he explained.
He also stressed the importance of working closely with local stakeholders such as Namcor, the Ministry of Mines and Energy, and the Presidency’s Upstream Petroleum Unit.
Nyambe emphasised the training and development role of AIEN.
“We do a lot of training for negotiators, on contracts of oil and gas, and we offer networking forums,” he added.
His visit underlined not only his success but also the potential for Namibia and Africa to play a stronger role in global energy policy.
“Now we are at the table to partake in the decisions within the energy sector and influence our propositions,” Nyambe said.