Local content and strategic partnerships are vital for building an inclusive and competitive energy market, with the potential to deliver lower-cost products to Namibians.

This was the consensus during a panel discussion at the International Energy Conference held in Windhoek.
Panelists emphasized that prioritizing local content will empower Namibians in the energy sector, enhance capacity building, boost employment, and support the development of local value chains.

Frank Cassulo, Vice President of Chevron International Exploration & Production, pointed to Indonesia as a prime example of how local content strategies can fuel growth and develop talent. He noted Chevron’s nearly century-long presence in the country, which includes major investments in local training and workforce development.

Cassulo stressed that sustainable industry growth depends on the implementation of local content policies, strong partnerships with local enterprises, and a commitment to local hiring. Keeping skills and expertise within the country, he added, is key to ensuring long-term economic and sectoral competitiveness.

Petrofund CEO Nillian Mulemi highlighted the importance of implementing foundational steps following the release of Namibia’s draft local content policy. She stated that effective coordination of sector activities, from exploration through to production, is essential.

Mulemi also revealed that several Namibians have been deployed to international jurisdictions as part of efforts to prepare them for future opportunities in the country’s growing oil and gas sector.