Namibian Legal Advisor returns inspired from Germany hydrogen study trip
Last month, Melissa Araes, Legal Advisor on Hydrogen at the Namibia Green Hydrogen Programme, participated in an information visit to Berlin and Hamburg on the topic of “Hydrogen Industry in Germany.” The study trip formed part of Germany’s “Visitors Programme,” which brings together key international professionals to gain insights into specific thematic areas.The programme aimed to showcase Germany’s hydrogen policy as a major contribution towards decarbonisation, enhancing the country’s reputation as a hi-tech hub and a reliable partner for both the private sector and state actors, while addressing misconceptions about its energy transformation. Araes joined professionals from Africa, Latin America, North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Over the course of the week, participants engaged with public institutions, research organisations, project developers, and industrial clusters.
Araes highlighted that her work primarily involves analysing regulation, institutions, and policy frameworks that either facilitate or hinder the energy transition. Experiencing Germany’s green hydrogen industry firsthand was, she said, like stepping into a live case study of the impact when policy, politics, and technology align.
She reflected: “The question is not whether Africa can produce green hydrogen. We already know we can. The real question is whether we can build the institutional clarity, regulatory certainty, enabling policies, infrastructure planning and skills base to turn that potential into industries that create jobs, value and resilience for our people. Germany showed what is possible when strategy, law, finance and technology move together. Germany has its ‘house in order’ on hydrogen and there is a lot the rest of us can learn.”
The “Visitors Programme” of the Federal Republic of Germany serves as an important instrument of the country’s foreign relations. It allows influential international participants to experience Germany firsthand, form networks, and gain authentic insights into the nation’s policies, innovations, and approaches. Through these exchanges, participants are able to establish long-term connections with Germany and with fellow professionals from around the world, fostering cooperation and mutual learning.
For Araes, the study trip offered a unique perspective on what is achievable when policy frameworks, technological innovation, and institutional support converge, providing inspiration for advancing Namibia’s own green hydrogen ambitions.