Fortescue, a leading green technology, energy and metals company, recently conducted a half-day media training workshop in Windhoek. The event was specifically tailored for journalists from various media houses, focusing on enhancing reporting skills on green hydrogen.
The workshop featured numerous speakers, including Fortescue’s chief climate scientist Shanta Barley, who holds a PhD in marine ecology, a master’s degree in oceanography from the National Oceanographic Centre in Southampton, and studied biological sciences at Oxford University. Barley is a seasoned journalist renowned for her expertise in green hydrogen. In her presentation, she highlighted the significant potential of green hydrogen in combating climate change and promoting clean energy.
With 2023 being the hottest year on record and fossil fuels being the primary energy source, the urgency to transition to cleaner alternatives is essential. Green hydrogen, produced through renewable energy-powered electrolysis, offers a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. Barley’s presentation showed that Namibia, with abundant renewable resources and favourable geographic conditions, is uniquely positioned to lead in green hydrogen production, potentially becoming a major global exporter. The presentation further highlighted the development of green hydrogen infrastructure in Namibia promises substantial environmental and economic benefits. This includes significant reductions in global CO2 emissions, stimulation of economic growth, job-creation and enhanced energy security. Despite challenges such as technological advancements in electrolysis and storage, as well as the need for supportive policy frameworks, the outlook is promising.
By 2050, green hydrogen demand is expected to rise dramatically, with the fuel playing a crucial role in global energy systems. “Namibia is one of a handful of countries with the ability to accelerate global decarbonisation, while generating immense domestic economic benefits,” Barley noted.
In addition, Nyasha Francis Nyaungwa, a respected media industry veteran with over two decades of experience, graced the event. His insights, garnered from his extensive career as the Namibian correspondent for Reuters and The Africa Report, brought invaluable perspectives to the table. During this facilitation, he encouraged journalists to improve reporting standards and key messaging strategies to benefit readers and communities alike. The event was introduced by Fortescue Energy’s country manager Chris Movirongo, who provided a comprehensive demonstration of green hydrogen. One of the workshop attendees, Veronica Amaral, a journalist specialising in business and health at The Confidente newspaper, acknowledged her limited knowledge of green hydrogen prior to attending the recent media training. However, the training significantly enhanced her understanding. “I’ve learned about the environmental significance, and the crucial role of the energy sector concerning green hydrogen for Namibia,” she stated.