Hilma Nalupe

Erich Openimwari Nepembe is one of the first holders of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Petroleum Geoscience, an emerging sector in the Land of the Brave.

As one of the first PhD holders in that field, Nepembe hopes to inspire more Namibians with an interest in the field to pursue their dreams.

Born in Epyenene village in Okatana, the 36-year-old holds a Master’s Degree in Petroleum Geoscience from the University of Namibia and is awaiting his PhD in the same field from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom, which he is expected to receive next month.

Nepembe joined Namcor in 2023 as a senior Geoscientist but now works as a Business Director at Serco Geoprob, a company he co-founded, and as a Project Lead Geologist for Rössing Uranium.

Nepembe pursued that field to understand petroleum and how it can better contribute to the country’s economy.

“I realised that Namibia shares structural and stratigraphic similarities with countries such as Angola and Brazil, which are producing hydrocarbons. So, I pursued a career in Petroleum Geoscience to understand the technical petroleum aspects better, and it can contribute to the economic discoveries in Namibia,” Nepembe said proudly.

He described his PhD journey as one with both advantages and disadvantages, but it has provided him with new perspectives on socio-economic balance.

“The journey was, however, met with obstacles, including delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, issues with data access, the emotional toll caused by being away from home, coupled with the stigma I sometimes faced abroad. But I am a go-getter, and I persevere in whatever route I take with hard work and zeal.” His research was not only about obtaining a degree, but also about making a significant difference and contributing to the economic emancipation of Namibia.  “It is a great achievement, but I did not attain this academic milestone to chase publicity. It has always been about giving back to the Namibian community through innovation and research,” said Nepembe.

Upon his return from the United Kingdom in 2023, Nepembe has been involved in the technical evaluation of petroleum assets in Namibia, both onshore and offshore, and conducted technical evaluations and marketing of PEL 82 in the Walvis Basin. Beyond his technical work, Nepembe lectures master’s students in Petroleum Geoscience at the University of Namibia, helping shape the next generation of specialists.

He believes Namibia is well positioned on the petroleum scene and definitely in the conversations as a future energy hub. -hnalupe@nepc.com.na