As an independent economic and business researcher who provides economic and business expertise pro gratis to the Namibian people and the global community, I frequently get questioned about the imminence of economic change in relation to green hydrogen.
Furthermore, in my opinion, as a responsible professional, Green Hydrogen is a national project that needs the involvement of all Namibians without daring it to fail, provided that those in charge of overseeing this national project demonstrate transparency, confidence and accountability to adopt a prudent approach, striking a balance between ambition and caution to ensure that its green hydrogen dream does not turn into a failed national project. According to a local newspaper, Her Execellency Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the president-elect, requires further explanation from government officials to feel more confident about this national pursuit. 

The president-elect’s demand is both important and reasonable, considering her goals to reform Namibia’s economy and the necessity for a more in-depth discussion and explanation of the Green Hydrogen matter. To ascertain whether this national effort would mark a significant change in terms of economic recovery and investor confidence, it is imperative that responsible leaders engage with Namibians on an ongoing basis. 

The incoming president and administration will have the opportunity to create the environment for long-term growth and prosperity with well-thought-out plans and prompt action. It is important to keep in mind that the vision places a strong emphasis on growth and care for Namibians, and it calls on Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Council to get in contact to rally support for the government’s revolutionary project. 

In leadership, there are some things you can’t do with the task force by itself; instead, you need the participation and support of the people of the country.
For Namibia to thrive and for Namibians to advance as a cohesive nation with a clear head and an awareness of Green Hydrogen’s development, the government and the community must work together. 

Since the local community, in their observing position, also depends on the government for some parts to move, this coherence should be referred to as a game-changer. 

As a result, I will continue to promote national projects that will improve people’s quality of life, and bring about economic transformation as an independent economic and business researcher, regardless of our political affiliations. For the benefit of the country and its citizens, the leaders must convene and collectively reason. 

They must also hear the opinions of the people. The broad implementation of green hydrogen will not occur overnight.  Several obstacles must be overcome before the full potential of this technology can be realised.
Furthermore, the news that Hylron-Oshivela has successfully installed 44 000 solar panels on 25 hectares, generating 25 MW of renewable energy, is reassuring. Over 60 small and medium-sized Namibian businesses have been involved in the project, which has created jobs for over 400 Namibians. 

The leaders should let the Namibians know, as it is a national project. The company should share the progress that the nation wants to hear without waiting for the president to visit. 

To dispel some misconceptions about the sustainability of green hydrogen, Namibians would also like to be informed about the full scope of green hydrogen across the country, and how it will spur economic growth rather than just keep successes or failures for themselves. 

The Green Hydrogen Council’s commitment to openness and stakeholder inclusivity is crucial as Namibia pursues an ambitious green hydrogen strategy that holds great promise for the country’s people and economy in the long run.  Policies and regulations pertaining to green hydrogen production must also be developed and specified by the local community. Production companies need to have robust policy frameworks in place to attract investment, ensure safety and integrate hydrogen into their existing energy systems because the technology is still in its infant stages.

In addition to producing hydrogen, the Namibian Green Hydrogen Council must establish clear plans for how it will fit into their larger energy strategy. As Namibia is positioned to emerge as a global leader in the production of green hydrogen, this includes regulatory support for renewable energy projects, hydrogen certification, and cross-border trade agreements. The country should also consider that the global green energy market is heavily-regulated, with rapidly- shifting policies. 

A complicated framework of global regulations, carbon trading systems and possible green hydrogen tariffs must be negotiated by Namibia. 

Infractions of these regulations could result in penalties, exclusion from markets or fines, all of which would have a big financial impact. 

By doing this, Namibia will give regional and international businesses a strategic opportunity to get involved and work together to promote energy security on a local and global scale, economic diversification, and much-needed climate change mitigation.
Moreover, the launch of a scholarship programme to support capacity building for Namibians to pursue various green hydrogen-related courses is praiseworthy.  Developing a skilled workforce that includes engineers, technicians, workers and policymakers is essential to the development of a green hydrogen industry. 

Investments in education and training are necessary because countries hoping to engage in the green hydrogen economy will need to build up their own local expertise. Although it would be advantageous to lead in hydrogen technology, Namibia has sent young people to study in this field because it has its own set of potential drawbacks regarding capacity expansion and intellectual property. 

Notwithstanding these obstacles, utilising Namibia’s green hydrogen potential is a worthwhile endeavour that calls for a multifaceted strategy. Namibia’s green hydrogen development has the potential to revolutionise the country’s economy by providing a path toward the production of clean energy. In conclusion, in order to fulfil this potential, Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Council will need to communicate with the local community in a meaningful way, and discuss how strategic planning, international collaboration and a dedication to sustainability can help overcome foremost obstacles.

Therefore, Namibia could meet its own energy needs with more environmentally- friendly alternatives, play a significant part in the global energy transition, and set an example for other African nations if it approaches these challenges with vision and creativity.

*Josef Kefas Sheehama is an independent economic and business researcher.