Patience Makwele
Industries, mines and energy minister Modestus Amutse has warned that Namibian businesses risk missing out on oil and gas opportunities if they do not prepare.
He spoke at the upstream oil and gas local suppliers’ workshop in Windhoek on Tuesday, held by Petrofund.
Amutse said Namibia is nearing a final investment decision on offshore discoveries, and local firms must be ready.
“Namibia is building this industry from the ground up. But participation will not happen by default. Our businesses must understand tendering processes, compliance requirements and operational standards if they are to compete,” he said.
The workshop comes as offshore discoveries in the Orange Basin, led by companies such as TotalEnergies, move closer to development.
He said the projects could bring billions of dollars in investment and create opportunities in logistics, engineering, catering, environmental services and finance.
Officials at the workshop warned that without preparation, local firms could lose out to foreign contractors.
“The clock is ticking. I encourage other financial institutions to follow suit. If we are serious about local participation, we must ensure our businesses have access to the capital required to compete.”
He also urged oil companies to support local firms.
“I implore you to open your facilities and guide our entrepreneurs. This is how we build a competitive domestic supply chain,” he said.
Presidential special advisor and deputy head of the Upstream Petroleum Unit Carlo McLeod said the current phase is critical.
“Local content is not a courtesy; it is a commitment. But we cannot legislate our way into the value chain. We must build our way there through skills, standards and readiness,” McLeod said.
He said the period before FID will determine whether the sector creates jobs and business opportunities for Namibians.
McLeod said access to finance is a major challenge.
“Winning a contract often requires significant upfront capital before any payment is made,” he said.
He said tools such as bid bonds, guarantees and contract financing are needed.
FirstRand Group Namibia announced a N$1 million contribution to Petrofund to support suppliers.
McLeod said local businesses must act now.
“You are not bystanders in this story,” he said. “You are principal characters. But you must speak the language of the industry.”
He said this includes meeting standards, improving operations and building partnerships.
The government aims to grow the role of small businesses under the sixth National Development Plan, but gaps remain.
A Windhoek-based logistics entrepreneur Petrus Shivute said requirements are still high.
“Everyone is talking about opportunities, but the requirements are extremely high,” Shivute said.
“Certification, equipment, and financing for many small companies are not there yet.”
Industry standards include ISO certification, safety requirements and strong financial capacity.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has previously said oil and gas must create jobs and support local businesses.
“History is watching us. The choices we make in the next few years will determine whether this sector transforms our economy or leaves too little behind.”
