The Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF) is on the brink of a breakthrough, as its proposal to establish the country’s first Green Industrial Zone has advanced to the final approval stage for a substantial €25 million, approximately N$625 million grant under the Mitigation Action Facility (MAF).

According to a statement issued by EIF’s Chief Executive Officer, Benedict Libanda, out of more than 500 global submissions, EIF’s Green Industrial Zone project was selected among the top 20 shortlisted proposals, placing Namibia at the forefront of global sustainable industrial development.

“Submitted in July 2025, the project has already undergone a rigorous virtual assessment in August, with a final decision expected from the MAF board in October.

 If approved, the funding will catalyse low-carbon industrialisation, accelerate green job creation, and reinforce Namibia’s transition toward a sustainable, climate-resilient economy,” he said

The EIF has already acquired land for the development of the Green Industrial Zone project at farm 58 in the Erongo region. 

Once developed, the proposed Green Industrial Zone will serve as a hub for green industries, hosting a diverse range of activities including but not limited to renewable energy, sustainable manufacturing, clean tech industries, natural resources value chain development and other activities that reduces the impact of climate change.

Fully aligned with the National Development Plan Six (NDP6), the project will also make a direct contribution to Namibia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

He added that this is not just a project, it is a bold step for Namibia. It demonstrates the readiness to pioneer a new model of industrialisation, one that places sustainability, innovation, and people at the centre.

“The project is being advanced in partnership with the Namibia Green Hydrogen Programme and the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), underscoring Namibia’s collaborative approach to climate-smart development. 

If successful, the N$625 million investment will mark a turning point in Namibia’s journey to becoming a regional hub for green industrial transformation, setting an example for Africa and beyond,” he said.