The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (Namcor) is still targeting a transition to full operator status within the next decade, as it seeks to move from a participating partner to a leading force in Namibia’s upstream oil and gas sector.
Speaking at the recently held Namibia International Energy Conference 2026, Namcor Acting Managing Director, Mtundeni Ndafyaalako said the strategy remains firmly in place, centred on building technical capability, strengthening partnerships and expanding the company’s operational role.
“Our goal is to become a fully fledged operator within the next decade, supported by strong partnerships and capacity building,” he said.
Ndafyaalako said achieving that shift will depend on sustained skills development, knowledge transfer and deeper collaboration with international oil companies already active offshore Namibia.
He noted that Namcor’s dual mandate as both a state representative and a technical partner provides a strategic platform to balance investor interests with national priorities, while gaining exposure to different operating models.
Through its participation in petroleum licences, the company is building technical and commercial insight that could help shape industry standards and inform policy decisions.
Namcor is also advancing key technical workstreams, including gas monetisation, with multiple development options under consideration as part of efforts to define the country’s long-term energy pathway.
“We are leveraging our position to gain insights, shape decisions and support the country’s long-term energy strategy,” Ndafyaalako said.
Meanwhile, Namibia Petroleum Operators Association executive director Festus Hangula warned that infrastructure constraints could limit growth if not addressed early.
He said Namibia needs a coordinated infrastructure master plan linking offshore production with onshore logistics and export systems as the country moves closer to first oil.
Hangula added that while the sector presents significant economic opportunities, its direct employment impact will be limited, making it critical to deploy future oil revenues strategically.
“Oil revenues must be used wisely to diversify the economy and create broader opportunities,” he said.
