The Minister of Mines and Energy Tom Alweendo has appointed members of the National Energy Council.
The members are John Titus (Chairperson), Dr. Michael Humavindu, Sem Kadhikwa, Helvi Fillipus, Maria Amakali, Anna Shatika, Zoe Nambahu and Bertus Eksteen.
The members of the Council are appointed in terms of Section 1 2 (1) of the Petroleum Products and Energy Act (Act No. 13 of 1990). The members are nominated by their respective institutions for recommendation to the Minister of Mines and Energy and appointment by the President. The term of office for the members is valid for three years, effective 01 February 2024, and ending 31 March 2027.
Handing over the appointment letters, the Minister called on newly appointed members to execute their functions with accountability. “Sometimes, people with the power to change the status quo for the better have good intentions, but are scared of being held accountable. In order to effect change, decisions must be made, and those decisions require accountability. Accountability is nothing to fear when you are working for the greater good, particularly in a position like yours, which was created with the aim of assisting and developing the energy sector in Namibia. Don’t undermine yourself or the power vested in you!” says Minister Alweendo.
As per the governing Act, the Council’ s objective is to advise the Minister of Mines and Energy on matters concerning the supply of energy in Namibia, and the development, exploitation, and utilization of the energy resources of Namibia; and to assist the Minister to co-ordinate and rationalize activities connected with the energy industry of Namibia.
More specifically, the functions of the Council are as follows:
- To make recommendations to the Minister regarding the effective and efficient administration of the National Energy Fund (NEF).
- To make recommendations to the Minister regarding the approval of funding by the NEF to approved agencies.
- To advise the Minister with regard to the investment policies of the NEF.
- To make recommendations to the Executive Director in respect of the annual budget of the NEF.
- To make recommendations to the Minister in respect of any amendment of the Petroleum Products and Energy Act or any regulation to be made under this Act.
- To take action or steps which are conducive to the exercise of its powers or the performance of its functions under this Act.
- To make recommendation to the Minister in respect of the introduction or increase of a levy to be imposed on any energy source.