Emmanuela Jossob champions a community-centred green economy

In Namibia's ||Kharas region, a new generation of changemakers are shaping the country's green industrial future, among them Emmanuela Jossob.Jossob is a green hydrogen youth ambassador, an economist at the ||Kharas Regional Council and a final-year master’s candidate in industrial engineering who embodies a blend of innovation, purpose and commitment to sustainable development. At the regional council, Jossob is responsible for identifying and conceptualising economic initiatives that drive long-term regional prosperity. She believes that industrial development is key to Namibia’s economic transformation, capable of creating jobs, boosting exports and promoting self-sufficiency. Her decision to study industrial engineering was inspired by the emergence of the green hydrogen sector, which she views as a “turning point and a new dawn” for Namibia. “I am deeply passionate about ensuring that industrial growth not only strengthens the economy but also improves social well-being and protects our environment,” she says.Jossob first heard about the Green Hydrogen Youth Ambassador Programme (YAP) through a social media call for applications. Having long followed Namibia’s developments in renewable energy, she saw the initiative as an opportunity to create impact. “I applied because I wanted to be part of Namibia’s economic transformation,” she explains. The programme aligns with Vision 2030 and NDP6, which prioritise sustainable industrial growth.A new dawn With the ||Kharas region’s exceptional solar and wind energy potential, Jossob believes it is well-positioned to lead Namibia’s green energy revolution. “The true measure of success lies not only in energy production but in how effectively we translate this investment into tangible improvements for people at grassroots level,” she says. She emphasises that green hydrogen can unlock new industries, accelerate decarbonisation and create thousands of jobs, provided development remains inclusive and community-centred.Bringing a unique dual perspective as both an economist and an industrial engineering student, Jossob combines technical insight with policy knowledge. Through her work with various stakeholders, she ensures communities are active participants in Namibia’s industrial transformation. “Communities should never be spectators of development,” she stresses.Since joining YAP, Jossob has found inspiration in the vast potential of the green hydrogen sector and the energy of her peers. A call to young NamibiansAttending the Green Hydrogen Summit and engaging with global experts deepened her understanding of Namibia’s clean energy potential. “It’s inspiring to see how confident the world is in Namibia’s ability to lead in clean energy,” she reflects. Equally meaningful, she adds, has been connecting with other young ambassadors across Namibia. “We may come from different regions and backgrounds, but we share the same ambition to see our communities benefit from this new industry,” she says.Her experiences have strengthened her determination to become a leader in green industrial development. She aims to focus her career on enabling sustainable industries, empowering SMEs and ensuring that communities, especially in ||Kharas, gain from long-term investment. “This sector is not just about energy,” she notes. “It’s about shaping Namibia’s socio-economic future.”Jossob urges Namibia’s youth to take part in the green hydrogen movement. “Green hydrogen is not just another project; it’s a generational opportunity. If we as young people don’t take our place, our futures will be curated in our absence,” she says. She encourages young people to show up, innovate and lead with purpose.“If one community becomes more resilient, if one young person gains a career, or if one rural business expands because of this new economy, to me, that impact is worth fighting for,” she concludes.

Emmanuela Jossob champions a community-centred green economy

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Republikein 2025-11-20

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Emmanuela Jossob champions a community-centred green economy

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