A collaborative approach is needed for the sustainable and successful development of the oil and gas; and energy industry in Namibia, according to RMB Namibia CEO Philip Chapman.
“This new economic development calls for action from all of us to develop this in a way that will benefit Namibia and its people … we need corporates, banks, local content, SMEs, and individuals in Namibia to all take up this baton to play their rightful role in developing the oil and gas, and energy industry in Namibia.
RMB has been a key enabler in developing other sectors over the past three decades. We trust that we can do the same by enabling you to develop your business in Namibia at the greater benefit of the country†Chapman said.
Speaking at the RMB panel discussion titled “Empowering Namibia’s Oil and Gas Sector: Creating A Platform for Local Content Enablement, Financing and Capacity Building Initiatives – Bridging the Gap at the Strategic Industry Insight sessions on day one of the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC), the panellists echoed Chapman’s sentiments.
“There are multiple avenues for Namibians to be upskilled. An incubator policy where you take small to medium businesses, nurture them and assist them with their reporting, quality control and the certifications required for them to win contracts with International Oil Companies (IOCs) and their subcontractors. Additionally, an IOC could partner with a National Oil Company (NOC) to send staff members on an exchange programme where they will be in rotation with the aim of providing prospects for upskilling and sharing their experience from around the world, which they can return to their NOC†RMB- Head of Oilfield Services Higino Mutemba said.
He noted that the recent exchange control update regarding certain transactions between Angola and Namibia was commendable and a positive decision.
However, he warned that due to oil companies having been burned in other jurisdictions, it is important that exchange controls that govern the oil and gas sector, allow for enough cross-border transactional ease, such that the oil companies do not fear being cash trapped in Namibia and/or have delays in their transactions (and ultimately their work) due to there being a high documentational bar for cross-border transaction.
Additionally, fellow panellist and RMB Namibia Head: Oil & Gas, Energy and Resources, Angelique Peake stated that, “In Namibia’s oil and gas industry, fostering local content is not just a destination; it is a journey of empowerment. There is a wealth of knowledge illuminating pathways towards a win-win scenario for the entire industry.â€
The panellists further agreed that collaboration presents an opportunity to invest in formal education for local individuals from the ages of 4-16 where a massive change which includes decreasing youth
unemployment can be achieved. The initial focus should not only be on super high skills, but rather on recognising the value chain from “birthâ€.
“RMB is committed to the energy development journey, “As RMB, we have a vision to build and enabling and long- term sustainable Namibia. A Namibia which will serve all her people, now and for generations to come. “If you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far, go together,†let us go together as partners to build a long-term sustainable Namibia†Chapman concluded.
*In our ongoing commitment to accuracy and integrity, we would like to issue a correction to our earlier article published on Monday. Upon further engagement and clarification with the individuals quoted in the article, it has come to our attention that certain aspects of the original article required revision.We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by the previous version of the article and any confusion it may have generated. Ensuring the accuracy of our reporting is of paramount importance to us, and we appreciate your understanding as we strive to uphold the highest standards of journalism.
