Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called on the private sector to play a stronger role in growing Namibia’s energy industry, saying the sector is key to fighting unemployment and boosting economic development.

The President made the remarks during a recent courtesy visit by Selma Shimutwikeni, Chief Executive Officer of RichAfrica and founder of the Namibia International Energy Conference.

Nandi-Ndaitwah praised Shimutwikeni for her continued efforts to promote dialogue in the energy sector and for regularly updating her office on the work of her organisation.

“I must really appreciate that every single year, you update me about the work of your organisation and your business. Energy is one of our biggest enablers. If we are to solve the problem of high unemployment in the country, there is nothing we can do without energy,” the President said.

She added that the government is looking to the private sector as a critical partner in developing the country’s oil, gas and renewable energy industries.

“I’m really looking at the private sector to play its role. And your business is one of the critical partners. You are welcome,” she said.

Shimutwikeni said she founded the Namibia International Energy Conference more than 14 years ago to create a platform for discussions on Namibia’s energy potential.

“I’ve been convening the sector for more than 14 years to discuss Namibia’s energy potential,” she said. “I’ve been bringing international, regional and local experts together to discuss development in the industry.”

She said this year’s conference theme focuses on protecting both oil resources and the environment through partnerships, marking a milestone since the platform started in 2012 with only 120 participants.

ljason@nepc.com.na