Finnish companies are positioning themselves to support Namibia’s renewable-energy ambitions, offering expertise in wind and solar development, power generation and industrial value-chain growth.
Finland’s Ambassador to Namibia, Katja Kalamäki, said Namibia’s strong solar potential, favourable wind conditions and clean-energy goals place it among the most attractive investment environments for renewable technology suppliers.
“Finnish companies are interested in offering their know-how to build wind and solar production, power generation and so much more, which develops value chains and brings jobs. But we see the partnership with Namibia in more broader terms as well,” she said.
Kalamäki noted that Finland’s shift to fossil-free power was achieved through long-term investment in research, regulation and infrastructure, adding that Namibia’s own development path offers similar strategic opportunity.
“Namibia has world-class solar resources, strong wind potential and clear ambitions for clean-energy industrialisation, which together create major opportunities for value addition and skills development in the long term,” she said.
The ambassador said cooperation now extends beyond energy infrastructure, with both governments linking universities and technical institutions through a Finnish-funded programme aimed at strengthening green-industrial capabilities. She added that Finland’s Nuclear Safety Authority has begun supporting Namibia on nuclear-safety training and regulatory development.
“We regard this partnership as broader than infrastructure because developing education, regulatory frameworks and strategic skills is essential for any successful transition in the energy and industrial sectors,” Kalamäki said.
Kalamäki further highlighted Finland’s mining and minerals expertise, stating that more than 80% of global underground mining systems originate from Finland and Sweden. She said this aligns closely with Namibia’s plans to expand value addition in critical-mineral supply chains.
“Finland’s strengths across the mineral value chain match Namibia’s plans for developing advanced processing, environmental responsibility and circular-economy approaches in its mining sector,” she said.
She said opportunities for young Namibians are expected to grow through joint renewable-energy research, engineering cooperation and innovation programmes.
“Green industrialisation depends on strong skills, adaptable regulation and sustained research investment, and these are areas where young Namibian engineers and innovators stand to benefit significantly,” Kalamäki said.
