Oil conference next week

As Namibia moves closer to producing its first oil and awaits final investment decisions, the Namibia Oil and Gas Conference (NOGC) returns to Windhoek next week under the theme 'From Decision to Dividend: Making Namibia’s Oil Work for Namibians'.

Running from 18 to 20 August 2026, this year’s conference is set to be its largest edition yet, according to organisers. The event has grown into a major regional hub for the energy sector, attracting thousands of professionals across exploration, production, engineering, technology, logistics, finance and government.

Organisers say the gathering comes at a crucial time for building connections, identifying suppliers and understanding opportunities across the country's expanding energy sector. The conference is organised by the Economic Association of Namibia (EAN), the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) and the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF), in partnership with the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR), Rhino Resources and SNC Incorporated.

More than 2,000 delegates from over 40 countries are expected to attend. Entry is free, but pre-registration is required via the official online form.

Youth participation

Meanwhile, the NOGC renewed its partnership with the Namibia Youth Energy Forum (NYEF) earlier this month. The collaboration aims to prepare Namibia’s next generation of energy professionals through the conference's Future Generations Session and Local Content Masterclasses.

These initiatives cover education, technical training, mentorship and youth participation in conversations shaping the country’s energy landscape. They are designed to equip students, graduates and young professionals with the knowledge, skills and industry exposure needed to participate meaningfully in Namibia’s oil and gas sector.

As part of the masterclasses, the Future Generations Session will focus on empowering young people. Bringing together young professionals, students, industry leaders, educators and policymakers, the session will explore career pathways, entrepreneurship, innovation and skills development within the oil and gas sector and related industries.

Developing local talent

Speaking on the renewed partnership, Cons Karamata, chief executive of the EAN, emphasised the importance of developing local capacity and creating opportunities for the next generation.

"Developing local talent must remain a key priority," he said. "Through these initiatives, we aim to support the growth of future professionals, entrepreneurs and leaders who will help shape Namibia’s energy future and ensure that the benefits of the sector extend to generations to come."

Andreas Paulus, director at the NYEF, said the partnership strengthens efforts to connect young people with opportunities across the sector.

"We believe that meaningful youth participation is essential in ensuring that Namibia’s energy future is shaped inclusively and that young Namibians are positioned to contribute to the sector’s growth," he said.