Seizing green hydrogen opportunities
Namibia is standing on the edge of a major economic transformation. With some of the best solar and wind resources in the world, the country is attracting significant investment in green hydrogen, a clean fuel produced from renewable energy. This is not just a technological trend; it is a real opportunity to create jobs, develop skills, and shape the future of the economy.
However, this potential will only become a reality if Namibian youth step up now to acquire the skills needed to participate in this growing industry.
So, what is green hydrogen? Simply put, it is produced by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity generated from solar or wind power. Around the world, countries are searching for clean alternatives to fossil fuels, and green hydrogen is gaining momentum as a viable solution. Namibia’s long Atlantic coastline, abundant sunshine, and steady winds place it in a prime position to lead not only in Africa but globally.
This potential is already translating into action. Major developments such as Hyphen Hydrogen Energy, HyIron, Zhero, Cleanergy, and Daures Green Hydrogen are progressing steadily. Hyphen, in particular, stands out as a flagship project that demonstrates long-term investor confidence in Namibia’s green energy ambitions. These initiatives signal that green hydrogen is no longer a distant possibility; it is a present opportunity being turned into tangible developments on Namibian soil.
The human story
Beyond the large-scale projects and investment figures, however, the most important story is the human one. Green hydrogen has the potential to create thousands of jobs across the value chain, from installing solar panels and wind turbines to maintaining electrolysers, managing logistics, and processing chemicals. By 2030, the sector could provide thousands of direct and indirect jobs, but only if young Namibians are ready and able to fill them.
The reality is clear: foreign companies will bring in their own skilled workers if the training and upskilling of local people are not prioritised. This should serve as a wake-up call. Namibia’s youth cannot afford to wait; they must upskill and prepare themselves to benefit from this emerging economy.
Encouragingly, support is already emerging. Programmes such as the Youth for Green Hydrogen scholarship are funding training in trades including welding, electrical work, solar installation, plumbing, and other skills critical to the industry.
The Baumgartsbrunn Vocational Training Academy, for example, is offering welding training and workshops at a grassroots level in Namibia. Projects such as Ignite GH2, supported by the European Union and Namibian universities, are training graduates in green technologies and linking them directly with hydrogen companies for employment opportunities. These initiatives send a clear message: this industry is not just about machines and infrastructure, but about people and skills development.
The time is now
For young Namibians, the message is simple: there is no time to wait. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions provide practical, job-ready skills that are urgently needed. Scholarships, internships, and apprenticeships must be proactively pursued. At the same time, universities and polytechnics play a crucial role in producing engineers, scientists, managers, legal experts, accountants, and entrepreneurs capable of supporting and leading this new sector.
Even for those who are not currently studying, this opportunity remains within reach. What matters most is a willingness to learn, discipline, and commitment. Green hydrogen is a fast-evolving industry, with changing technologies, safety standards, and global market demands. Those who succeed will be those who remain curious, adaptable, and committed to lifelong learning.
If approached correctly, green hydrogen could transform Namibia’s economy and place its youth at the centre of national development. Without deliberate action, however, the country risks watching this opportunity pass by while others benefit. The tools, programmes, and projects are emerging. What remains is for Namibian youth to step forward with determination.
This is your moment. Learn the skills. Take the opportunities. Step forward and claim your place in Namibia’s green energy future.
*Saima Ashipala is an intern at Namibia Oil and Gas.
