The German government has approved an additional €2 million (about N$40 million) in funding to strengthen Namibia’s pioneering green hydrogen initiatives, with a focus on transport innovation and skills development.
Announcing the commitment, Florian Seitz, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, said the funding will help demonstrate real-world applications of hydrogen technology, including the development of Namibia’s first hydrogen-powered bus.
“This is more than a means of transport. It is a unique learning platform because it shows Green Hydrogen made in Namibia in action. Beyond technology, the funding will also support training programmes and further research into materials and safety standards,” he said.
Seitz stressed that Namibia’s green transition will only succeed with skilled professionals who can shape the country’s energy future.
He added that green hydrogen creates opportunities across the entire value chain, aligning with the objectives of Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6) and the United Nation’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The sector is expected to generate skilled jobs locally while contributing to global efforts to decarbonise industries.
Seitz further pointed out that Namibia’s ambitions are in step with Germany’s own High-Tech Agenda, which prioritises climate-neutral energy and mobility.
He praised the strong political backing Namibian leaders reaffirmed at the recent Second Global African Hydrogen Summit, noting that such commitments are crucial to attract both public and private investment.
“At this pivotal moment, success will depend on international cooperation. Thanks to the strong partnership between Namibia and Germany, we are on the right path. On behalf of the German Federal Minister of Research, I thank the Namibian government for its trust, vision and excellent cooperation,” he said.
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