The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Hon. Natangue Ithete, today inaugurated joint electrification projects in Ombili, Otjiwarongo, highlighting a significant stride in Namibia’s drive to boost economic activity and improve livelihoods through expanded access to electricity.
In his keynote address, Ithete emphasised that electrification is a cornerstone of national development, directly supporting job creation, enterprise growth, and improved living standards. The projects are a result of a collaborative funding model between the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy and the regional electricity distributor, CENORED, with a combined investment of over N$21 million.
To date, this partnership has enabled the connection of 561 households across four regions, demonstrating a practical and effective approach to closing the energy access gap. The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the national and continental energy goals, including Namibia’s target of 200,000 new connections by 2030 and 400,000 by 2040 under the African Mission 300 Energy Compact.
The economic implications of these electrification efforts are profound. With reliable electricity, local vendors in areas like Ombili can now diversify their offerings to include perishable goods such as fresh milk, meat, and vegetables. Small enterprises, including mechanics and tailors, can extend their operating hours, increasing productivity and income. Households will also save significantly on transport and energy costs previously spent seeking services only available in electrified areas.
Hon. Ithete also addressed the challenge of connecting remote communities located far from the main grid. He announced the launch of a new off-grid electrification programme, designed to complement the existing Solar Revolving Fund. This initiative will allow households to access loans for quality solar systems, ensuring that even the most isolated communities can participate in the modern economy.
The Minister called on citizens to protect electrical infrastructure, use electricity responsibly, and pay bills promptly to ensure the sustainability of the services. He also urged continued cooperation between government, private entities like CENORED, and communities, describing development as a “three-sided collaboration”.
“Electricity is a need, not a luxury,” Hon. Ithete stated. “It provides safety, opportunity, and dignity. Our goal is that by 2040, no Namibian household will be without electricity.”
The event marks another step in Namibia’s broader economic development strategy, linking energy access to poverty reduction, enterprise development, and improved quality of life—a vision central to the government’s industrial and energy policy.