“Africa, and in particular Namibia, must produce its own electricity; we cannot afford to remain dependent on external sources while our citizens face rising tariffs and unreliable access.”
This was said by deputy prime minister and minister of mines, energy and industry Natangwe Ithete, at the opening of the Regional Energy Regulators Association of Southern Africa (Rera) annual conference at Swakopmund on Wednesday.
Ithete emphasised the urgency of regional self-reliance and inclusivity in energy production.
“True energy independence is not only about resilience, but also about sovereignty, economic security and regional strength,” he said, urging regulators to return to their institutions with action plans, not just ideas.
He stressed that escalating tariffs and unstable electricity supply are no longer distant challenges, but “daily realities” that demand bold, coordinated responses.
Ithete outlined solutions, including investment in domestic renewable energy, strengthening infrastructure and fostering a regulatory environment that attracts private capital while safeguarding vulnerable communities.
“Inclusive access to energy for every household should not be negotiable. Our roles are no longer just about overseeing; it is about leadership in bringing about tangible positive changes in communities,” he stressed.
The three-day conference, held under the theme ‘The Regulators’ Readiness Towards a Just Energy Transition’, brought together regional stakeholders, energy experts and regulatory authorities to strategise the future of energy across southern Africa.
Echoing the minister’s sentiments, Erongo governor Neville Andre highlighted the region’s pioneering role in Namibia’s green energy transition.
He pointed to successful local initiatives such as solar photovoltaic installations with an installed capacity of around 50 megawatts feeding into the national grid, as well as transformative green hydrogen projects like the Dâures Green Hydrogen Project and Cleanergy Solutions Namibia.
“These projects not only contribute to our national goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but also empower our local communities by providing clean and sustainable energy,” Andre noted.
He also underlined the importance of sustainable energy in supporting Erongo’s diverse industries, including mining, fishing and tourism.
Rera chairperson Skhumbuzo Tsabedze reinforced the role of regulatory bodies in ensuring the success of a just energy transition.
“The conference will deal with the financing and regulatory frameworks for a just energy transition and will discuss topics such as artificial intelligence and urban energy development,” Tsabedze said. – Nampa
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