By Rachel Mushabati, Senior Associate Attorney, CLG Namibia (www.CLGGlobal.com).

Namibia, a nation renowned for its breath-taking scenery and abundant wildlife, is becoming more and more well-known for its booming oil and gas industry. Namibia is quickly rising to the top of Africa’s oil and gas exploration and investment destinations because to notable discoveries and a favourable investment climate. Here are some reasons for investors to be interested in Namibia’s developing economy and how business advice and strategic law might improve investment prospects.

A Treasure Trove of Potential

Namibia’s oil and gas sector has garnered international attention due to its substantial potential. Recent exploratory drilling has revealed promising reserves off the coast, particularly in the Namibian offshore region. After several years of extensive exploration, Namibia realized its first oil discoveries. In early 2022, Shell, QatarEnergy, and NAMCOR made a landmark discovery in the deep-water well in the Orange Basin, offshore southern Namibia. This was followed by another significant find in 2023, when TotalEnergies, QatarEnergy, and NAMCOR discovered light oil with associated gas on the Venus prospect, also in the Orange Basin. In 2024, Galp Energia, Custos, and NAMCOR further solidified Namibia’s status with a high-quality light oil discovery in the Mopane-1X well, located in the same prolific basin.[1] These discoveries, alongside notable formations such as the Kudu Gas Field, have positioned Namibia as a key player in the global energy market. The country’s geological formations, particularly in the Orange Basin, have demonstrated significant hydrocarbon potential, making it an attractive destination for exploration and production.[2]

Government Support and Favourable Policies

One of the primary drivers of Namibia’s attractiveness as an investment destination is its supportive government and investor-friendly policies. The Namibian government has implemented a range of initiatives to foster a conducive environment for oil and gas investments. Namibia’s Investment Promotion Act[3] is a pivotal component in the country’s strategy to attract and support investors. This comprehensive legislation provides a range of incentives to enhance the financial viability of projects and reduce initial costs[4]. It also ensures robust legal protections, safeguarding investors’ property rights and offering non-discriminatory treatment compared to domestic investors. By streamlining licensing processes and providing one-stop-shop services[5], the Act simplifies the investment process and reduces bureaucratic hurdles. Additionally, it supports priority sectors such as oil and gas, reinforcing Namibia’s commitment to fostering a transparent, stable, and investor-friendly environment. Namibia’s commitment to creating a stable and attractive investment environment is evident through its proactive approach in engaging with international investors and offering competitive terms.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure

Namibia’s strategic location along the Atlantic Ocean provides a crucial advantage for oil and gas operations. The country’s well-developed port infrastructure, particularly the Port of Walvis Bay, facilitates efficient export and import processes.[6] Additionally, Namibia’s proximity to key international markets enhances its appeal as a hub for energy resources. The development of supporting infrastructure, such as pipelines and storage facilities, further strengthens Namibia’s position as a key player in the global energy supply chain.

Economic Growth and Sustainable Investment Opportunities in Namibia’s Oil and Gas Sector

Investing in Namibia’s oil and gas sector not only presents a wealth of economic opportunities but also aligns with the principles of sustainability and responsible investment. The sector’s expansion is expected to stimulate ancillary industries such as construction, logistics, and technology, benefiting local businesses through increased demand for related services and products. The influx of foreign investment is anticipated to drive job creation, infrastructure development, and overall economic growth. Concurrently, Namibia places a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship. The government and industry stakeholders are committed to responsible investment practices that protect local communities and ecosystems. Investors who prioritize these practices will not only contribute to positive environmental and social outcomes but also bolster their own reputation and long-term success in the market.

Conclusion

Namibia’s emerging oil and gas sector offers a compelling opportunity for investors seeking to capitalize on new and promising markets. With its substantial hydrocarbon potential, favourable government policies, strategic location, and burgeoning economic opportunities, Namibia is poised to become a prominent player in the global energy arena. The sector’s growth is anticipated to drive significant benefits across various ancillary industries and create widespread economic development. Additionally, the emphasis on sustainability and responsible investment practices aligns with global standards, ensuring that investments contribute positively to local communities and the environment.

However, successfully navigating this promising landscape requires expert guidance. Engaging with local legal and business advisory services can provide investors with crucial insights, help manage regulatory complexities, and enhance overall investment strategies. By leveraging the expertise of these advisory services, investors can maximize their potential for success and make a meaningful contribution to Namibia’s oil and gas sector. For those ready to explore the opportunities in Namibia’s oil and gas industry, the time to act is now. With the right expertise and strategic approach, investors can unlock substantial rewards and play a pivotal role in the growth of this exciting sector.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.

Do not hesitate to reach out to our team of lawyers and business advisors at CLG for any enquiries. We seamlessly guide our clients through Africa’s abundant investment opportunities and stand ready to assist you in fulfilling your reporting requirements.

Contact: 
info@clgglobal.com
tax@clgglobal.com

The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) on Thursday convened a joint meeting for Somalia’s security partners to update them on the significant progress made in the administration of the Somali Security Forces (SSF) Trust Fund.

During the meeting in Mogadishu, UNSOS briefed the partners on the status of the Fund and outlined the mission’s support to the Somali Security Forces through the UNSOS-administered SSF Trust Fund.

Somalia’s National Security Advisor, Hussein Sheikh Ali, emphasised the critical importance of UNSOS’ logistical support in boosting SSF’s operations.

“I want to acknowledge the unique role of UNSOS, which compliments other support given by our security partners, including training. UNSOS’ support has helped Somali security forces keep the focus on operations and has contributed to the security achievements and progress made over the past few years. This has enhanced the operational capabilities of the Somali security forces,” said the National Security Advisor.

He appealed to traditional and new international partners to ensure predictable and sustained funding to the SSF Trust Fund to contribute to Somalia’s security and stability.

Assistant Secretary-General Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, the Head of UNSOS and co-chair of the meeting, pointed out the vital role of the Trust Fund to UNSOS’ capacity to fulfil its UN Security Council-mandated roles and facilitate a smooth, sustainable transition of security roles from ATMIS to Somali Security Forces.

“What we are doing here is actually a commitment to the Security Council. As members of the Security Council, you tasked us to give support to Somali Security Forces and the numbers have almost doubled now. We have 20,900. We appreciate the trust, but we cannot deliver without the funds,” said ASG Kacyira at the consultative forum.

ASG Kacyira thanked Somalia’s international partners, including the United Kingdom and the United States, for their contributions to the SSF Trust Fund.

Additional funding for the Trust Fund will ensure timely and efficient delivery of critical non-lethal logistical support to the SSF, including food rations, fuel, tentage, communication equipment, medical and casualty evacuations, defence stores, transport, and capacity building.

Present at the meeting were representatives from the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy, Norway, Qatar, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Burundi and Kenya while France, the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates attended virtually.

Michael Nithavrianakis, the Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Somalia, highlighted the tangible impacts of his country’s support to Somalia’s security sector through the Trust Fund.

“As the SSF scales up in line with the security transition, its financial needs increase from year to year and this further increases the need for additional donors to step up,” emphasised Ambassador Nithavrianakis.

He also hailed UNSOS for managing the SSF Trust Fund, which has had a positive impact and enabled improved fighting capabilities of the Somali National Army.

“Our financial support to UNSOS has an outsized impact. Every dollar or pound committed has benefits that will last for generations to come. We see where our money is going. The provision of tangible material support to the SSF is an extremely cost effective and measurable way of providing support for the security transition,” said Ambassador Nithavrianakis.

US Ambassador to Somalia, Richard Riley, thanked UNSOS for managing the SSF Trust Fund and promised continued oversight to ensure funds are used appropriately.

“We will always maintain oversight of every penny we put into Somalia because Somalia is our friend. It’s our partner and we know they have a huge fight on their hands. And we want to contribute to that,” said Ambassador Riley.

Somalia’s Chief of Defence Forces, Maj. Gen. Ibrahim Sheikh Muhyadin, highlighted the need for continued support to the SSF Trust Fund to enhance Somali Security Forces’ operational capabilities.

“Your support comes at a critical time when we are engaged in operations to liberate areas from terrorist control.  We are jointly building a self-reliant Somalia, and I would like to thank all our partners for their support. Your contribution not only supports our current operations, but also contributes to a safe, secure, and prosperous Somalia,” Maj. Gen. Muhyadin said.

He also noted that UNSOS’ support to the Somali National Army extends beyond providing food rations and fuel.

“It also includes medical and casualty evacuations on the frontlines, communication support, and defensive bases in newly liberated areas,” Maj. Gen. Muhyadin added.

Gen. Osman Abdullahi Mohamed, the Deputy Commissioner of the Somali Police Force (SPF), said UNSOS’ support to 1,500 SPF personnel is vital for maintaining law and order in areas liberated from Al-Shabaab.

“Police personnel supported by UNSOS operate in Lower Shabelle and Middle Shabelle regions. Besides law enforcement operations, the police also perform stabilisation duties,” said Gen. Osman Abdullahi Mohamed.

UNSOS currently supports 20,900 SSF personnel in joint or coordinated operations with ATMIS through voluntary Trust Fund contributions.

UN Security Council Resolution 2748, adopted in August 2024, encourages Member States to support the Somali Security Forces through the Trust Fund to counter terrorism and promote peace and security in Somalia and the region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS).

The 11th Edition of Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com) Africa Asia Luminary will be officially inaugurated by The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. SAMIA SULUHU HASSAN, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp and Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej; The First Ladies of Africa to be the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers at the 11th Edition of Merck Foundation’s Annual Conference; More than 6,000 healthcare providers, policymakers and media from over 70 countries will benefit from this Luminary.

Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, will conduct the 11th Edition of their annual conference, “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary”, under the patronage of The President of Tanzania, and in partnership with the Government of Tanzania on 29th and 30th  October 2024, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The conference will be officially inaugurated by H.E. Dr. SAMIA SULUHU HASSAN, The President of the United Republic of Tanzania together with Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees. It will be chaired by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and will have Africa’s First Ladies from more than 15 Countries as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers;

H.E. Madam ANGELINE NDAYISHIMIYE, The First Lady of the Republic of Burundi
H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde
H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of Central African Republic
H.E. Madam DENISE NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of The Congo
H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia
H.E. Mrs. REBECCA AKUFO-ADDO, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana
H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia
H.E. Mrs. MONICA CHAKWERA, The First Lady of the Republic of Malawi
H.E. Mrs. ISAURA FERRÃO NYUSI, The First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique
H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
H.E. Mrs. MUTINTA HICHILEMA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zambia
H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe
H.E. Mrs. MARIAM H. MWINYI, The First Lady of the Zanzibar

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary shared, “We are excited to announce the 11th Edition of our annual conference in partnership with the Government of Tanzania to be inaugurated by H.E. Dr. SAMIA SULUHU HASSAN, The President of the United Republic of Tanzania. I am also very happy to welcome our Guests of Honors and Keynote Speakers, the First Ladies of Africa and Ambassadors of “More Than a Mother” Campaign, for the Luminary. I am looking forward to share the experiences and discuss the impact of our programs to transform patient care and raise awareness on a wide range of sensitive and critical social and health issues.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees expressed “At Merck Foundation, our mission is to improve overall health and well-being by strengthening healthcare capacity and providing access to quality and equitable healthcare solutions across Africa, Asia, and beyond. Our annual conference stands as a symbol of our unwavering commitment to this cause.”

Hon. Dr. Dorothy Gwajima (M.P.) Minister of Community Development, Gender Women and Special Groups, Tanzania, emphasized, “We are delighted to host this prestigious conference in Tanzania, that brings together Africa’s First Ladies, Ministers, Policymakers, Academia, Healthcare providers and Media from over 70 countries.”

The conference will be held in a hybrid format, featuring both physical and online participation of more than 6,000 healthcare providers, policymakers, academia, researchers, and health media representatives from over 70 countries across Africa, Asia, and beyond. Of these, 500 participants will attend in person.

During the 11th Edition of the conference, Merck Foundation will also celebrate two significant milestones: the 7th Anniversary of Merck Foundation and 12 years of their impactful development programs, that were started in 2012.

“Since 2012, we have made a significant progress, I am happy to share that we have provided more than 2000 scholarships to young doctors from 52 countries in 42 critical  and underserved specialties such as Oncology&Cancer care, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Cardiovascular, Fertility Care, Embryology, Sexual&Reproductive Medicine, Internal Medicine, Respiratory Medicine, Acute Medicine, Critical Care, Pediatric Emergency, Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, Clinical Psychiatry, Urology, Ophthalmology, General Surgery, Trauma&Orthopedic, Dermatology, Neonatal Care, Clinical Microbiology&Infectious Diseases, Advanced Surgical Practice, Neuroimaging for Research and more. Many of them are becoming the first specialists in their countries, and we are proud of this achievement”, added Senator, Dr. Kelej.

On the first day of the conference, the Plenary Session of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2024 will take place, featuring a high-level panel discussion with African First Ladies.

On Day 2 of the conference, five key parallel medical and scientific sessions will be held, covering topics such as oncology, diabetes and hypertension, fertility and reproductive care, and medical capacity building in other specialties like respiratory care, acute care, emergency pediatric and neonatal care, and more. Additionally, a community awareness session, Merck Foundation Health Media Training, will be conducted for African journalists. This session will emphasize the critical role of the media in influencing communities and driving cultural change, with regards to a wide range of social and health issues like Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girls’ Education, Stopping GBV, Ending Child Marriage&FGM, Empowering Women, Diabetes and Hypertension Awareness.

Countries participating in the 11th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary will include:

Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Central Africa Republic, Cambodia, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Gabon, Germany, Ghana, Guinea – Bissau, Guinea – Conakry, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Thailand, The Gambia, Togo, Tunisia, U.A.E, UK, Uganda, US, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.

The 11th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary will be streamed live on the social media channels of Merck Foundation and Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Summarizing Merck Foundation’s initiatives and impact:

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 2000+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in 42 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

• 3200+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa

• 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese

• 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes&Hypertension and supporting girl education.

• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community

• 1000+ Girls from 15 African countries supported through scholarships or school items, annually.

• 12 Social Media Channels with more than 6 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality&equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4e8Q3dl), X (https://apo-opa.co/3MUmKiE), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4e8Q5lt), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4ejMwJ4) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3TwxU0M).

Parliament has implored government to find lasting solutions to recurrent disasters, citing River Nyamwamba in Kasese District which is said to flood at least three times a year.

Legislators said it was unbecoming that every year the country experiences devastating effects of floods which could be averted.

“It has become common that every month of May, June and October, River Nyamwamba bursts its banks and leaves very many people dead and property destroyed. It is not happening in Kasese alone but Rwenzori sub-region, because districts like Ntoroko, Bundibugyo, Kabarole and Bunyangabu are also affected,” said Hon. Florence Kabugho (FDC, Kasese District Woman Representative).

Kabugho raised this as a matter of national importance during the plenary sitting chaired by Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa on Wednesday, 18 September 2024.

She said the recent floods on 07 September 2024 caused damage, that left Kasese residents questioning if government still cares for them.

“The floods have killed people, destroyed houses and swept away merchandise, leaving the business community suffering. We know government has released money to desilt that river but we are not seeing what that money is being used for, the people of Kasese think that government has neglected them,” said Kabugho.

Kabugho prayed that government sends technocrats to Kasese to find out the lasting solutions to the floods. whose seasons are known but continue to affect the population.

Pakwach District Woman Representative, Hon. Jane Avur, said her people are not any different from those in Kasese following the flooding of the River Nile banks which has curtailed education.

“The River Nile has burst its banks and as a result, pupils in Pakwach are unable to access schools. Teachers have also rebelled because they cannot continue to use the small canoes, they are asking for motorised boats from the Office of the Prime Minister,” Avur said.

Cognisant that primary seven pupils are yet to sit for the national exams, Avur called on the Office of the Prime Minister to urgently respond.

Hon. Gilbert Olanya (FDC, Kilak South County) said the season of floods in Elegu, Amuru District is known to the ministry in charge of disasters and asked for the progress of the permanent solutions government promised his people.

The Minister of State, Office of the Prime Minister (Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees), Hon. Lillian Aber, said her ministry is working with United Nations agencies to establish a long-term mitigation plan for disasters that happen in Kasese, Ntoroko and Bundibugyo districts. She added that her ministry had already sanctioned relief food for Kasese residents affected by the River Nyamwamba floods.

The Minister of State for Water and Environment (Environment), Hon. Beatrice Anywar, talked of an inter-ministerial committee chaired by the Prime Minister which has been charged with the responsibility to respond to the Kasese floods.

“The committee is already holding meetings since last week. There are some directives raised by the President that the committee is incorporating. In the meantime, there can be interventions such as clean water which is needed by our people,” Anywar said.

The Deputy Speaker revealed that his office receives complaints about disasters on a weekly basis and proposed that since seasons for most of the disasters are known, there should be a solid solution.

Tayebwa went on to direct the Minister of Relief and Disaster Preparedness to table a comprehensive report detailing government’s preparedness to mitigate disasters on 25 September 2024.

“I am receiving nearly every week issues of disasters and the answers we get are the same. We request the minister to bring a report on how prepared they are to mitigate disasters. Right now I do not think Hon. Rwemulikya can be here because of what is happening in Ntoroko,” Tayebwa said.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.