Nam makes progress towards FID
Africa is emerging as a leader in the global green energy revolution, with hydrogen playing a strategic role across the continent. Countries like Angola, Egypt, Kenya, Mauritania, Morocco and South Africa are advancing hydrogen projects, but Namibia stands out, making significant progress toward Final Investment Decisions (FID) on up to five projects.Africa has some of the world’s fastest-growing economies yet faces a severe energy access challenge. Over 600 million people lack reliable electricity, and nearly 900 million rely on traditional biomass for cooking. This energy deficit presents an opportunity to leapfrog outdated technologies and embrace sustainable solutions.
Green hydrogen, produced from Africa’s vast renewable resources, can help bridge this gap. With abundant solar and wind potential, Africa can generate green hydrogen at scale to meet domestic energy needs and supply international markets, positioning itself as a global leader.
Namibia: Leading Africa’s green hydrogen future
Namibia is at the forefront of Africa’s green hydrogen transition, with FIDs on projects expected by 2025. The country is leveraging its vast potential for synthetic fuel production and equipment manufacturing to drive economic growth and establish itself as a key player in the global energy sector.
A highlight of Namibia’s green ambitions will be the Global African Hydrogen Summit in Windhoek from 9 to 11 September 2025, offering investment opportunities across the green hydrogen value chain. Namibia remains committed to innovation, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability.
Key Hydrogen Projects in Namibia
The Global African Hydrogen Summit, in partnership with the Namibia Green Hydrogen Programme, has published a FID Timeline, tracking the progress of major projects:
• HyIron Oshivela Project – Producing green iron for export.
• Cleanergy Solution – Developing green ammonia for heavy transport and export.
• HDF Energy – Producing green hydrogen and electricity for the national grid.
• Zhero/Envision – Producing green hydrogen and ammonia for export.
• Hyphen Hydrogen Energy – Producing green hydrogen and ammonia for export and local electricity supply.
Hydrogen presents vast job creation and economic growth opportunities. According to IRENA, the hydrogen economy could generate millions of jobs, benefiting Africa significantly. Namibia is already developing the necessary workforce and technical skills for the sector.
Exporting green hydrogen to Europe and Asia could create significant revenue streams, supporting infrastructure and social development.
Challenges and the way forward
Despite its potential, Africa’s hydrogen sector faces challenges, including infrastructure development, financing, and regulatory frameworks. Scaling up production and creating storage, transport, and distribution infrastructure will require substantial investment. Governments must also establish clear regulations to attract investors.
Africa’s hydrogen industry is poised for transformation. With abundant renewable resources, a growing workforce, and increasing investment, the continent is set to lead the green energy revolution. The Global African Hydrogen Summit 2025 will bring together key stakeholders to drive partnerships and investment in bankable green energy projects, reinforcing Africa’s role in the global hydrogen economy.