Namibia has moved to court Brazilian capital for its fast-growing oil, gas and green hydrogen sectors, as it seeks to convert recent resource discoveries into industrial development and jobs.
Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musavyi issued a direct investment call during talks with Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, positioning Namibia as an underexploited resource market with immediate opportunities across the energy value chain.
“As you know, Honourable Minister, Namibia has made significant discoveries in oil and gas, and renewable energy in the form of green hydrogen, in this regard, we extend a strong invitation to the Brazilian private sector to explore the opportunities available within Namibia’s growing manufacturing industry. Namibia offers a stable business environment, strategic access to regional and international markets, and an abundance of natural resources that remain underutilised in terms of value addition,” she said.
The push goes beyond upstream investment, with government pressing for downstream industrialisation through local processing and manufacturing.
“We encourage Brazilian companies to consider establishing manufacturing and processing plants in Namibia to add value to these resources locally. Such investments would not only enhance industrial development but also contribute meaningfully to job creation, skills transfer, and inclusive economic growth in Namibia,” Ashipala-Musavyi said.
The approach reflects a shift in Namibia’s strategy, from resource discovery to value capture, as competition intensifies for investment into Africa’s emerging oil provinces.
Vieira confirmed Brazil is already repositioning itself in Namibia’s energy sector, citing the return of Petrobras as a signal of renewed engagement.
“Of great interest, as well, is the development of the oil and gas sector in Namibia. The wealth generated by the oil industry creates opportunities for our countries to foster economic growth, create jobs, promote social inclusion and finance the transition to low-carbon economies,” he said.
Namibia is betting that its combination of offshore oil potential and green hydrogen ambitions will attract long-term capital, as it seeks to anchor a new phase of industrial growth built on both hydrocarbons and clean energy.
