The Presidency, through its Upstream Petroleum Unit, has successfully concluded nationwide public consultations on the draft National Upstream Petroleum Local Content Policy , engaging communities across Namibia to ensure broad participation in shaping the country’s petroleum future.
The consultations, held from 1–17 September 2025, commenced in the //Karas Region and continued across Kunene, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Otjozondjupa, Erongo, Kavango East, Kavango West, Zambezi, and Omaheke Regions. The sessions brought together governors, mayors, councillors, traditional leaders, entrepreneurs, elders, and youth, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency.
Across all engagements, one message was clear: Namibia’s petroleum resources must drive inclusive development, empowerment, and shared prosperity for all citizens.
Regional Voices and Key Messages
• In //Karas, during the consultations held in Lüderitz, Governor Mr. David Gertze highlighted the importance of inclusivity and shared prosperity. Meanwhile, in the regional capital, Keetmanshoop, the Chairperson of the Regional Council, Hon. Joseph Isaacs, echoed this call, urging government and industry stakeholders to “consider those that were previously disadvantaged.” He stressed that local content must not only create opportunities for Namibians broadly but must also directly address historical inequalities by ensuring fairaccess for marginalised groups, rural communities, women, and the youth. Hon. Isaacs further emphasised that true transformation will only be realised if the petroleum sector becomes a vehicle for empowerment and shared prosperity across all layers of society.
• In Hardap, Governor Hon. Brian McNab highlighted that petroleum resources represent a pivotal moment in Namibia’s history, urging carefully planned, inclusive strategies to ensure equitable distribution of benefits across the country.
• In Kunene, Governor Hon. Vipuakuje Muharukua underscored the historic importance of Namibia’s oil discoveries, describing them as both an opportunity and a responsibility to ensure tangible benefits for Namibians.
• Kavango East: During the public consultation, Governor Hon.Hamunyera Hambyuka emphasised the importance of communication, stressing that effective dialogue between the government and communities is essential for addressing local needs.
• In Omaheke, Mayor Her Worship Melba Tjozongoro emphasised the need for skills development.
• In Otjozondjupa, Governor Hon. John ||Khamuseb proposed convening a National Conference on Mineral Resources to strengthen national ownership.
• Kavango West, Governor Hon. Verna Sinimbo focused on youth empowerment and ensuring fair access to scholarships, highlighting the role of public engagement in shaping opportunities for young people.
• In Omusati, Governor Hon. Immanuel Shikongo reaffirmed the importance of Namibian ownership in the petroleum sector.
• In Erongo, Councillor Olivia Andrews, on behalf of the Governor, called for robust accountability and compliance measures.
• In Oshana, Governor Hon. Hofni Ipinge praised the inclusivity of the consultations, stressing that benefits must be equitably shared among youth, entrepreneurs, and elders nationwide.
• From Zambezi, regional leaders called for urgent action on youth unemployment through early and transparent training opportunities.
• In Ohangwena, Governor Hon. Kadiva Hamutumwa emphasised equitable sharing of resources and foresaw opportunities in skills development, oil extraction training, and foreign investment that will stimulate Namibia’s economy.
• In Oshikoto, Governor Hon. Sacky Kathindi urged young Namibians to prepare for careers in petroleum by acquiring knowledge, skills, and networks, while encouraging businesses to seize opportunities for diversification and partnerships.
A Transformative Framework
Communities across Namibia expressed strong support for the draft policy, viewing it as a transformative framework capable of making the petroleum sector a driver of long-term national prosperity. Key themes included:
• Fair distribution of benefits through taxes, royalties, training, and employment.
• Capacity building, especially for youth and SMEs.
• Transparency and accountability supported by strong compliance mechanisms.
• Equity and inclusivity to ensure no Namibian is left behind.
• Environmental sustainability is aligned with Namibia’s renewable energy and
climate commitments.
Commitment from Government
Head of the Upstream Petroleum Unit, Hon. Cornelia Shilunga stated: “The government remains unwavering in its commitment to ensure that Namibia’s petroleum endowment translates into inclusive growth. This policy will serve as a cornerstone for national development, guaranteeing that our natural resources become a blessing for present and future generations. ”
Deputy Head of the Upstream Petroleum Unit, Mr Carlo McLeod, added: “Every company will be monitored. Every promise must translate into real benefits. Every Namibian must have a fair chance to participate. ”
Petroleum Commissioner Mrs Maggy Shino reaffirmed the Government’s dedication: “The wealth generated from Namibia’s oil sector must benefit all Namibians, with visible impacts in local communities that directly improve households. ”
The Presidency Upstream Petroleum Unit extends its sincere appreciation to all Namibians who participated in the consultations. The valuable contributions from communities across the regions will directly inform the finalisation of the National Upstream Petroleum Local Content Policy, ensuring that Namibia’s petroleum resources deliver broad-based benefits and lasting prosperity.
The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to fully implement the National Upstream Petroleum Local Content Policy, ensuring that Namibia’s petroleum resources drive inclusive development, create sustainable opportunities for youth and local enterprises, and promote equitable benefits for all communities. Through ongoing engagement, transparent oversight, and targeted capacity-building initiatives, the Government will translate this policy into tangible outcomes, reaffirming its promise to deliver a petroleum sector that contributes meaningfully to long-term national prosperity and empowerment for present and future generations.
