The African Energy Chamber’s Board (AEC) has selected President Hage Geingob as the recipient of its 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Geingob will receive the award in October during African Energy Week, which will be held in Cape Town.
He is also expected to deliver the opening keynote address at the event.
The award is a recognition of African leaders who have taken bold steps to improve the socioeconomic development and well-being of Africans by accelerating energy sector growth in Africa.
According to the AEC, under Geingob’s leadership, Namibia has earned a reputation for good governance, which has contributed to continued investment and exploration since the 2022 discoveries.
“These efforts have borne fruit. Namibia has attracted major international investors such as ReconAfrica, Chevron, ExxonMobil, Woodside, and Galp, among others.”
The Chamber also noted the country’s commitment to using a portion of its natural gas resources to meet domestic needs, which will bolster Namibia’s energy security and pave the way for economic growth and industrialization.
“I would like to add that, by focusing on market-oriented policies, forging partnerships with regional and global players, and demonstrating a commitment to local content and beneficiation, Namibia and its president have shown an unwavering commitment to leveraging the country’s energy resources for economic growth and a sustainable future for the region,” said NJ Ayuk, the Executive Chair of the African Energy Chamber.
The Chamber also commended the Namibian President for his dedication to Namibia’s natural gas agenda.
“He recognizes that natural gas has the potential to help African countries eradicate energy poverty through gas-to-power projects and that it can be monetized to help build infrastructure and grow the economy. Namibia is making significant strides in these areas. One example is the country’s plans for the offshore Kudu gas field in the northern Orange sub-basin. Namibia plans to build a floating platform there and a pipeline to transport the gas from the Kudu Field to Elizabeth Bay, where a gas-powered plant capable of generating up to 420 megawatts (MW) for Namibia and regional markets will be constructed.”
The AEC also highlighted Namibia’s efforts to develop its renewable energy sector.
“The country has been working in recent years to harness its solar and wind power to produce green hydrogen, generated from renewable energy sources, and position itself as a green energy hub. What stands out about Namibia is its emphasis on global collaboration: The country is working closely with German partners to drive its green hydrogen sector and unlock energy access and industrialization opportunities.”
AEW is the African Energy Chamber’s annual conference, exhibition, and networking event.