“Local content is defined as the active participation of Namibians in the oil and gas sector through training, employment and the provision of goods and services. We are drawing a distinction between local content and local ownership,” he stated.
Minister Alweendo also underscored the importance of a shared understanding of local content policies among stakeholders, and for rigorous input on the draft legislation.
“This platform offers us the opportunity to think about local content policy together. Our oil and gas discoveries have the opportunity to transform our economy beyond taxes and royalties,” said Minister Alweendo. “This will all depend on what we decide today.”
Petroleum Commissioner Maggie Shino concluded the minister’s address with the government’s ambitious plans for the sector, noting that the Ministry has issued 37 active upstream licenses, 34 exploration licenses, two reconnaissance licenses and one production license to date.
“In terms of the landscape of the Namibian oil industry, there are many dynamics that must be considered. When not properly regulated, it is easy for resourced nations not to see the fruits of their labor,” said Commissioner Shino. “Our geologies confirm that there are still untapped onshore and offshore reservoirs, and we will continue promoting the country’s petroleum potential.”
Commissioner Shino also emphasized the long-term impact of the decisions made at the workshop, and the transformative effect that stronglocal content policy could have on the sector.
“We are designing a document that will serve generations. While we are waiting for royalties and taxes, we must create industries,” she concluded.
