Namibia’s Oil and Gas Sector Revamp Puts Youth Empowerment Front and Center
Namibia is taking bold steps to transform its oil and gas industry by placing youth empowerment at the heart of its regulatory overhaul. With major oil discoveries on the horizon and production expected by 2029, the country is laying the foundation for a sustainable and inclusive energy future.
New Leadership, New Vision
Following her inauguration in March 2025, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah introduced a strategic reorganization of Namibia’s energy governance. A centerpiece of this reform is the creation of the Upstream Petroleum Unit (UPU) in May. The UPU serves as a specialized advisory body for upstream oil and gas development and is now led by Kornelia Shilunga, with Carlo McLeod as her deputy.
This unit is tasked with modernizing regulations, improving efficiency, and ensuring that the country’s energy sector delivers tangible benefits for Namibians—especially its youth.
Youth Empowerment as a National Priority
At the Youth in Oil & Gas Summit in Walvis Bay, UPU head Kornelia Shilunga highlighted that the new regulatory framework aims to create a dynamic and accessible petroleum sector. She stressed that youth empowerment is not a side goal but a central pillar of the government's development agenda.
Namibia’s demographic landscape reinforces this focus. With over 70% of its population under the age of 35—and projections showing continued growth—the youth represent both the present and future of the nation’s workforce.
Tapping Into Massive Energy Potential
Namibia is home to promising energy reserves, including an estimated 11 billion barrels of oil and 2.2 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. First oil production is expected in 2029, likely driven by the Venus discovery made by TotalEnergies.
Shilunga emphasized the importance of ensuring that these valuable resources translate into broad-based economic growth. She called on industry stakeholders to invest in local capacity building, encouraged academic institutions to align programs with energy sector needs, and urged young Namibians to take initiative by acquiring relevant skills and knowledge.
A Call for Collaboration
The government’s vision extends beyond policy reform. It invites a collective effort from the public and private sectors, educators, and the youth themselves. Shilunga’s message was clear: everyone has a role to play in shaping an oil and gas sector that is innovative, inclusive, and locally driven.
With strategic planning, robust education initiatives, and supportive legislation, Namibia is aiming to become a continental leader in energy while ensuring that its people—not just investors—reap the rewards.