Download Namibia Country Report

NAMIBIA
1.
2.
3.
4.
GENERAL OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
ENERGY AND RENEWABLE ENERGY
ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE
ORGANIZATIONS, SOURCES, REFERENCES
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-1GENERAL OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
1.1 Basic Facts & Geography
1.2 People & Society
1.3 Culture & Business Culture
1.4 Infrastructure & Logistics
1.5 Government & Legislation
1.6 Economy & Trade
1.7 Namibia & Finland
1.8 Education
1.9 General Operating Environment - Summary
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1.1 BASIC FACTS & GEOGRAPHY
Location
Area
Borders
Climate
Terrain
Natural hazards
Sub-Saharan Africa
824 290 sq. km
West: The Atlantic Ocean
North: Angola, Zambia
East: Botswana
South: South-Africa
Tropical
Mostly high plateau
Droughts, floods
Source: CIA, World Bank

The population of Namibia is 2.14 million people (2011) with the vast majority living in the fertile north of the
country. The capital Windhoek is home to only 342,000 people (CIA).

Namibia is located in south-western part of Africa. It is positioned on neighbouring countries are SouthAfrica, Botswana, Angola and Zambia.

It is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Africa with an average population density of 2.5 persons
per square kilometre.

Life expectancy at birth is very low, 52.19 years (2011) (World Bank).

The terrain is mostly high plateau, climate ranges from arid in the Namib Desert (along the coast) and
Kalahari Desert (in the east), to subtropical in other parts of the country.

Namibia has got water area of 1,002 sq. km (CIA).

Agriculture, herding, tourism and the mining industry – including mining for gem diamonds, uranium, gold,
silver, and base metals – form the backbone of Namibia's economy (Wikipedia).

The country is classified as a lower-middle income country and is heavily dependent on the extraction and
processing of minerals for export.
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1.2 PEOPLE & SOCIETY
Population, total
Population, growth
Population, density
Urban population
Rural population
Population (0-14 years)
Population (15-64 years)
Population (65 years and above)
Life expectancy at birth
Major cities
2009
2010
2011
2.24 mil
2.28 mil
2,32 mil
2%
2%
2%
2
2
3/km
3/km
…
37 %
38 %
38 %
63 %
62 %
62 %
37 %
36 %
36 %
59 %
60 %
60 %
4%
4%
4%
62
62
62
Windhoek - capital (268000), Rundu (58000)
Walvis Bay (52000), Oshakati (34000), Swakopmund (25000)
Source: CIA, World Bank

Post-colonial Namibia is largely stable and peaceful with a progressive constitution.

Namibia has the most unequal distribution of income in the world, a legacy from the colonial and
apartheid era.

The growth rate of the population is very moderate by African standards and the fertility rate is only 2.49
children per woman in 2011 (World Bank).

Despite a decline in HIV prevalence rates, which have fallen from 22 percent in 2002 to 17.8 percent in
2008, new HIV infections remain a serious concern (World Bank).

The country is confronted with a high average unemployment rate of 51.2% and 80% for the young aged
15 to 19 if jobless people not actively seeking work are included (African Development Bank).

Namibia conducts a census every ten years. After independence the first Population and Housing Census
was carried out in 1991, further rounds followed in 2001 and 2011. The data collection method is to
count every person resident in Namibia on the census reference night, wherever they happen to be. This
is called the de facto method (Wikipedia).

Although Namibia's population is comparably small, the country has a diverse choice of media: Two TV
stations, 19 radio stations (without counting community stations), 5 daily newspapers, several weeklies
and special publications compete for the attention of the audience (Wikipedia).
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1.3 CULTURE & BUSINESS CULTURE
Language
Ethnic groups
Religion
Official: English
Other: Oshivambo, Herero, Nama and others
about 50% of the population belong to the Ovambo tribe
and 9% to the Kavangos tribe;
other ethnic groups include Herero 7%, Damara 7%, Nama
5%, Caprivian 4%, Bushmen 3%, Baster 2%, Tswana 0.5%
Christian : up to 80 – 90 %
Traditional: 10 – 20 %
Source: CIA

English is the official language of Namibia. Afrikaans and German are also widely spoken.

The political stability in Namibia is providing a necessary condition for the tourism sector to develop.

With the developed infrastructure and a layer, although thin, of highly educated people, the country has
good prospects for growth and development if the social reforms succeed.

Black 87.5%, white 6%, mixed 6.5%

About 50% of the population belong to the Ovambo tribe and 9% to the Kavangos tribe; other ethnic groups
includes Herero 7%, Damara 7%, Nama 5%, Caprivian 4%, Bushmen 3%, Baster 2%, Tswana 0.5% (CIA,
Wikipedia).

Business professionals usually greet one another with a firm handshake while making eye contact with each
other.

Some Namibian professionals will engage in a traditional African handshake, in which the hands are clasped
in the same way as a handshake in the Western world, but the individuals lock their thumbs and point them
upwards before returning to the Western handshake.

Namibian professionals are not confrontational, so using harsh or abrasive language during a meeting is not
proper (Namibian Business Etiquette).

Men and women are expected to be well-groomed and neat when entering the office--clean and polished
shoes for both genders are appreciated as well.

Foreign professionals should refer to their Namibian colleagues as Mr or Mrs followed by the last name if the
Namibian does not have a professional title.

It is considered rude to not greet people, even strangers (Culture Crossing).

The view of time tends to be very flexible. Lateness in social situations is acceptable, but if you are in
professional settings you will be expected to be on time even though others may not be.

In most social situations, punctuality is not valued and time is meant to be shared with others. So, if you end
up talking to someone on your way to an event and thus are late, it is completely expected (Culture Crossing).
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1.4 INFRASTRUCTURE & LOGISTICS
Railways:
Roads:
Waterways:
Airports:
2 626 km
64,189 km
1,572 km
112 (airports with paved runways 19)
Source: CIA

The Namibian infrastructure is very developed by African standards.

Namibia has Africa’s third highest electrification level at 20%, but it depends on electricity imports from SA.

The country has an extensive and well-maintained road network and a modern aviation industry.

Walvis Bay has a modern deep-water port, which is expected to become an important commercial gateway
to Southern Africa.

The development of adequate transport infrastructure is critical to improving the competitiveness of the
private sector, stimulating economic growth and reducing poverty.

Luderitz and Walvis Bay are ports and terminals in along Namibia’s 1 572 km coastline (CIA).

Walvis Bay has a modern deep-water port, which is expected to become an important commercial gateway
to Southern Africa (Finpro).
1.5 GOVERNMENT & LEGISLATION
Official name
Conventional short form
Form of state
Regions and districts
Government
Legal system
Independence
Corruption perception index (2011)
Republic of Namibia
Namibia
Democracy
13 regions; Caprivi, Erongo, Hardap, Karas, Khomas, Kunene,
Ohangwena, Okavango, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana,
Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa
President Hifikepunye POHAMBA (since 21 March 2005)
Mixed: un-codified civil law (Roman-Dutch and customary)
21 March 1990 (from South African mandate)
57 (out of 183 countries)
Source: CIA, Transparency International

Independence was achieved in 1990 and Namibia has been governed by SWAPO (South-West Africa People's
Organization) since then.

President Hikikepunye Pohamba completes his constitutional two terms in March 2015.

The Constitution of Namibia guarantees the separation of powers:
o
Executive power is exercised by the President and Cabinet.
o
Legislature: Namibia has a bicameral Parliament with the National Assembly as lower house, and the
National Council the upper house.
o

Judiciary: Namibia has a system of courts that interpret and apply the law in the name of the state.
While the constitution envisaged a multi-party system for Namibia's government, The SWAPO party has been
dominant since independence in 1990 (Wikipedia).
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1.6 ECONOMY & TRADE
World bank ranking
Currency
GDP (current US$) (billions)
Structure of the economy (% of GDP)
- Agriculture
- Industry
- Services
GDP growth (annual %)
GNI per capita, PPP (current intl.)
Inflation, consumer prices (annual %)
Ease of doing business ranking
Upper middle income
Namibian Dollar
2009
$ 8,93
9%
33 %
58 %
0%
$ 6100
9%
51
(out of 181)
2010
$ 11,13
2011
$ 12,30
8%
20 %
73 %
7%
$ 6270
4%
66
(out of 178)
7%
20 %
73 %
4%
$ 6600
5%
69
(out of 183)
Source: CIA, World Bank

The exports-driven mining sector is a vital foreign currency earner for the economy. The sector accounted for
10% of GDP in 2009 but employs only about 3% of the population.

The most important mineral commodities exported are diamonds (south coast), copper, gold, zinc, lead,
uranium (northern and central Namibia) and salt (coastal central Namibia).

Also cattle, processed fish and karakul sheep skins are exported.

Most important export partners are South Africa and the EU (the UK most important) followed by Angola,
Canada and the U.S.

Namibia continues to witness sustained economic stability characterized by high rates of investment as a
percentage of GDP and real GDP growth averaging about 22% and 6.0% respectively during the period 20032007 (World Bank).

This has been possible as a result of the implementation of sound macroeconomic policies and wellfunctioning democratic institutions.

It offers a unique advantage for diversifying the economy away from minerals into areas such as tourism and
financial services, given the country’s sound governance environment, low crime, solid infrastructure,
beautiful landscape and scenery (World Bank).

In 2009, Namibia is rated as a low risk country

The country’s debt profile, both internal and external, is sustainable.

Namibia has a satisfactory record of meeting its debt obligations to the Bank and currently has no debt
repayment arrears (African Development Bank).

Government will enhance partnership for trade and regional integration (facilitate cross border investments
and international business).

The Namibian economy is closely linked to South Africa with the Namibian dollar pegged one-to-one to the
South African rand.

Until 2010, Namibia drew 40% of its budget revenues from the Southern African Customs Union (SACU).
Increased payments from SACU put Namibia's budget into surplus in 2007 for the first time since
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independence. SACU allotments to Namibia increased in 2009, but dropped in 2010 and 2011 because of the
global recession, reducing Namibia's overall SACU income. Increased fish production and mining of zinc,
copper, and uranium spurred growth in 2003-08, but growth in recent years was undercut by poor fish
catches, a dramatic decline in demand for diamonds, higher costs of producing metals, and the global
recession. A rebound in diamond and uranium prices in 2010 and the reopening of copper mines in 2011
provided a significant boost to Namibia's mining sector (CIA).
1.7 NAMIBIA & FINLAND
Finnish exports (2011)
Finnish imports (2011)
2, 4 mill € (mostly paper and paper products; Fabricated
metal products except machinery)
0,9 mill € (Meat and meat preparations, non-metallic
mineral manufactures
Source: Finnish Customs

The relations between Finland and Namibia are extensive and diverse. Interaction is lively especially in the
areas of culture, science, education, as well as amongst churches and municipalities (Embassy of Finland).

The strong political ties between the two countries will be very beneficial for both countries.

Finland and Namibia have long standing relations that started over 140 years ago, when the first Finnish
missionaries arrived in Namibia.

The Finns established the Evangelic-Lutheran church and developed a health care and education system in
the North, where the significant ethnic group called Owambo resides. The Owambo people learned Finnish
and some were even baptised with Finnish names (Embassy of Finland).

Finland has participated in the development of the water, forest, environment protection, mining, health
care and other sectors of Namibia.

Namibia offers possibilities for Finnish companies particularly in the mining, energy and logistics sector
(Embassy of Finland).

Finland supported Namibia's independence struggle in various ways, and the role of President Martti
Ahtisaari was significant in establishing the independence plan. During the 1990’s Namibia was one of
Finland's main partner countries in the field of development cooperation. Additionally, Finland was one of
the first countries with whom Namibia established diplomatic relations in 1990 (Embassy of Finland).

Finnish exports to Namibia cover mostly paper and paper products. Furthermore, fabricated metal products
except machinery.

Finnish imports from Namibia cover mainly meat and meat preparations and non-metallic mineral
manufactures.

Finland and Namibia signed an agreement for promotion and protection of investments, which took effect in
May 2005. To date, there are only a few Finnish investments in Namibia, but there expectations for new
Finnish investments taking place in 2012 in Namibia (Embassy of Finland).
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1.8 EDUCATION
Literacy rate, % of people ages 15 and above, 2009
Primary school enrolment, % net, 2009
Higher education:
89 %
85 % (88 % female, 83 % male)
National University
4 teacher training colleges
3 colleges of agriculture
Police training college
Polytechnic at university level
Source: UNESCO, World Bank

Literacy and education levels rank high by African standards.

The Literacy rate; adult total (% of people ages 15 and above) in Namibia was 88.51 in 2009, according to a
World Bank.

The Primary completion rate; total (% of relevant age group) in Namibia was 83.92 in 2009, according to a
World Bank.

The high youth unemployment rate is mainly attributable to an educational system that does not equip
learners with the skills required in the labour market, although the education sector receives the highest
share of the national budget (African Development Bank).

Most schools in Namibia are state-run, but a few private schools are also part of the country's education
system. There are four teacher training colleges, three colleges of agriculture, a police training college, a
Polytechnic at university level, and a National University.
1.9 GENERAL OPERATING ENVIRONMENT - SUMMARY

Given its small market size, openness and heavy dependence on international trade, the Namibian economy
is still vulnerable to external shocks such as changes in terms of trade, external demand and climatic
variations.

Scarce water resources are a substantial limitation for the socio-economic development of the country.

At least 80% of the rural population are engaged in agricultural activities as subsistence farmers but the share
of agriculture in GDP is about 6% reflecting low productivity in the sector.

Namibia will focus on rural infrastructures and irrigation systems to increase agricultural productivity as well
as promoting exports of high value crops.
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-2ENERGY & RENEWABLE ENERGY
2.1 General Situation in Energy Sector
2.2 Energy Policy
2.3 Renewable Energy Resources
2.4 Supply & Demand for Energy Solutions
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2.1 GENERAL SITUATION IN ENERGY SECTOR
Total energy consumption:
Energy consumption per capita:
Electricity consumption:
Electricity consumption per capita:
Access to electricity:
Access to electricity urban population
Access to electricity rural population
Energy imports (% of energy use)
Electricity imports (% of electricity use)
Power production capacity:
Hydro power production capacity:
Electricity production:
Hydro electricity production:
Share of population using solid fuels:
Fossil fuels % of total energy
2009
19,9 TWh
8,9 MWh/capita
3,53 TWh
1 576 kWh/capita
34 %
98 %
~30-40 %
81 %
54 %
467 MW
375 MW
1,74 TWh
1,42 TWh
57 %
70,5 %
1991
7,6 TWh
3,4 MWh/capita
1,54 TWh
67 %
365 MW (1995)
349 MW (1995)
1,39 TWh
1,13 TWh (1995)
62 %
(IEA, World Bank, IRENA, UN data)
Major sources of commercial energy in Namibia are petroleum, hydropower, imported electricity and coal. 57 % of
population use traditional solid fuels such as fuel-wood and charcoal in residential sector for heating, light and
cooking. The residential sector contributed 73 % of energy consumption in 2009. Further development of the use of
biomass and extension of national electricity grid would reduce this consumption greatly.
Self-sufficiency

Up to 81 % of energy used in Namibia is imported and 54 % of electricity is imported in 2009

The electricity supply mix is made up of a combination of domestic hydropower and thermal energy,
combined with imports from the Southern Africa Power Pool member countries: Zambia, Zimbabwe,
Mozambique and South Africa.

Namibia has no oil refineries (Namibia Oil & Gas Profile)
Electricity availability

34 % of the population had access to electricity in 2009. About 98% of the urban population has access to
electricity but in the rural areas percentage is much lower around 30-40%. Vastness of the country and low
population density makes it extremely difficult and expensive to extend the grid to un-electrified areas.

The country’s electricity transmission and distribution systems are considered well-developed. Existing
transmission infrastructure from South Africa is currently strengthened by the Caprivi inter-connector, which
will link Namibia to Zambia and Zimbabwe. Namibia’s main transmission line extends directly into South
Africa to several of its power stations.
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Electricity capacity

Over time, static growth in domestic generation has caused the volume of imports to increase to meet
demand. This has made Namibia increasingly dependent on power supplies from beyond its borders and
control. The country has to rely on outside sources to obtain the majority of their energy, leaving Namibia
vulnerable to problems resulting from policy changes and resource depletion in the countries on which it
depends.

Namibia’s own electricity is generated by three main power stations the hydro powered Ruacana
station in northern Namibia generates 240MW, Van Eck power station, outside of Windhoek, operates on
coal power and generates roughly 120 MW of power. The Paratus station on the western coast of
Namibia is used mostly as a standby station for the coastal area with four diesel powered generators
producing at maximum 6.4 MW of power each. The country relies heavily on energy imports from
Zambia and South Africa. Power sources are offered through its membership in the association of
Southern African Power Pool (SAPP).
(Reegle Country Profile)
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Source: IEA Country Energy Balance, 2009
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2.2 ENERGY POLICY
Energy policy publications
Organizations responsible for energy policies
Targets to increase use of renewable energy
Subsidies/ Incentives for Renewable Energy
The White Paper on Energy Policy (1998)
The Ministry of Mines and Energy
40 MW of renewable capacity (excluding hydro)
by 2011
Feed-in Tariffs considered but no current plan
for introducing
The White Paper on Energy Policy 1998 (link)


Sets out specific national energy policy goals for the electricity supply industry as promoting or enhancing:
o
Effective governance.
o
Security of supply
o
Social benefits, including upward mobility for poorer populations
o
Investment and growth
o
Economic competitiveness and efficiency
o
Sustainability
Although the promotion of renewable energy technologies (RET) is not mentioned as a special target of
energy policies. "Government will promote the use of economically viable renewable energy technologies, as
a complement to grid electrification, to improve energy provisions to rural areas."
Renewable Energy Programme (link)

Government initiated with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) in 2005. The Namibia
Renewable Energy Programme was designed to increase affordability and access to renewable energy
services and accelerate market development for renewable energy technologies by reducing existing barriers,
including human capacity, financial, technical, awareness and other market limitations.

In the short term, Namibia is focusing on demand side management programs and construction of the new
Caprivi Link, creating a new electricity wheeling corridor to mitigate against transmission capacity constraints
or the Namibia-Republic of South Africa interconnector. For the longer term, it is looking to build its domestic
portfolio with renewable energy.

Solar energy is main focus in Namibia National Renewable Energy Programme (NNREP). Solar energy
generation has increased from 685 MWh in 2004 to 14,941 MWh in 2008.

Intended results
o
Built capacity in public and private sectors and in NGOs
o
New policies, laws, regulations and actions in support of renewable energy are in place
o
Increased public awareness and social acceptability amongst stakeholders
o
Appropriate financing and product delivery schemes set up and expanded.
o
Learning, evaluation and adaptive management
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Regional Energy Distribution Master Plan (REDMP) and Off-Grid Energisation Master Plan for Namibia (OGEMP)

Regional Energy Distribution Master Plan (REDMP) will connect a large number of rural settlements to
Namibia’s main distribution grid over the next 20 years, but it is not economically feasible or technically
possible to electrify all off-grid settlements. Approximately 1,543 rural communities will be electrified over
the next 20 years by the REDMP, as outlined by the Ministry of Mines and Energy, while there will remain
4,315 un-electrified communities. For those settlements that will remain un-electrified, there is the OGEMP.

Off-Grid Energisation Master Plan for Namibia (OGEMP) proposes installing solar powered energy shops in
rural, un-electrified areas throughout the country. Such energy shops would provide basic energy services
such as cell phone charging and haircutting, and sell energy products such as paraffin gas, candles, and
eventually solar panel systems.
Subsidies/ Incentives for Renewable Energy

No current plan to introduce Feef-in Tariffs for renewable energy but idea is being considered by the
government.

Plans are underway to transform the national power utility NamPower into a modified single buyer to make
the market more competitive. The Electricity Control Board (ECB) is currently engaged as part of a
stakeholder group in a consultation process to determine the renewable energy (RE) incentive structures best
suited to Namibia.

Namibia’s regulator and other stakeholders are currently looking at support mechanisms that will drive
forward investment in renewable energy, with the understanding that optimum utilization of renewable
energy technology requires a combination of appropriate polices and a favourable investment environment
Other

A UNDP programme will look at various barriers that prevent the wider use of solar energy technologies.

An on-going study for designing a strategy for using biomass resources.

The Ministry of Mines and Energy, through the Namibia Renewable Energy Program (NAMREP), released a
study in August 2006 entitled “Feasibility Assessment to Replace Diesel Pumps with Solar Pumps (link)”.
(Reegle Country Profile)
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2.3 RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES
Significant renewable energy resources
Proven oil reserves
Wide renewable energy resources
0 BBL
OPEC
Hydroelectricity

According to Irene renewable energy country profile potential for hydropower is high in Namibia. Country
has developed a hydro power Master Plan. A study on all perennial rivers has been performed. The aim of the
study was to identify and estimate cost and production for all potential hydro power projects in the Lower
Kunene, Kavango and Lower Orange rivers.(IRENA, Namibia Renewable Energy Country Profile)
Wind

The total potential for wind power in the country is high. Particularly promising sites can be found along the
coastal regions, with several sites having average wind speeds of over 8 m/s, and some sites having wind
speeds as high as 15 m/s.

The first wind power park in sub-Saharan Africa (or even ‘parks’ as three sites have been identified in the
initial planning studies) is under design in Namibia (10 MW to 20 MW for Lüderitz). Aeolus Power Generation;
a 50:50 joint-venture between Dutch company Aeolus Association and Namibia’s United Africa Group, was
issued a license in April 2008 to develop this N$1.1 bln (USD 130 million) wind energy project powered
facility.
Solar

Namibia has one of the highest solar radiation regimes in the world. It is therefore logical to make use of the
abundance of photovoltaic energy as has been done for the last forty years or so. Solar energy is increasingly
used for off-grid electrification in the vast rural and, until independence, neglected areas in the country. The
first two villages have been totally energized by solar power (with Indian donor assistance), namely
Spitzkoppe village and Shianshuli in the Caprivi Region.
Biomass

Biomass production resources are low due to Kalahari desert covering large areas of Namibia. Biomass use in
the country is generally confined to traditional rural household usage, but some studies have indicated
potentials of 10 – 42 MWh/ha across the majority of the country.
(Renewable Energies in Africa (link), Reegle Country Profile)
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2.4 SUPPLY & DEMAND FOR ENERGY SOLUTIONS
Households

Heat for cooking and warm water

Power for lighting, communication and electronics
Commercial and public services - including healthcare, education, administration, business

Power, heat and cooling
Infrastructure - including water supply, sanitation, communication, waste management

Power, heat and fuels
Traffic and transportation

Fuels and power for vehicles
Agriculture

fuels for vehicles

Fertilizer

Power and heat for processing crop
Industry

Heat, cooling and power
Tourism - including resorts, lodges etc.

Heat, cooling, electricity, warm water
Regulatory barriers

On-going work is required to lessen fragmentation of the regulatory framework and modernize it to
encourage investment in renewable energy (RE), among other issues. To date, financing has stemmed
essentially from either grants or consumers that generate electricity for their own localized consumption.

RE usage for off-grid electrification still remains a regulatory challenge and as part of its consultation process
the ECB is looking at ways to develop an RE procurement support mechanism. This will incorporate RE in
mainstream electricity supply as well as provide electricity to off-grid customers in rural areas who are not
likely to be connected within the next 20 years, in light of infrastructure limitations.
(Reegle Country Profile)
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-3ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE
3.1 Description of Environmental Governance
3.2 Environmental & Social Requirements for Projects
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3.1 DESCRIPTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE
Namibia is one of the driest countries in southern Africa and the world. The cold Benguela current along the west
coast and Namibia’s location influence the main features of the climate, making Namibia particularly vulnerable to the
impacts of climate change. According to Ruppel and Ruppel-Schlichting (2011, xxv), Namibia is in a good position due
to its pristine natural environment and rich biodiversity, good governance and sound environmental management.
However, Namibia at the same time faces challenges especially related to poverty, climate change, desertification,
flooding and erosion.
The majority on Namibian population lives in rural areas, especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Climate change is expected to have various impacts that further reduce the livelihood options of the poorest:
reduction of biodiversity and food security, increase of the prevalence of drought and flooding; a further rise in sea
levels and changes in precipitation patterns. The adaptive capacity is limited, although there are programmes
especially directed to climate adaptation. (Ruppel-Schlichting 2011, 31).
The development of Namibian environmental laws and governance is closely linked to South Africa due to country’s
history. Some of the environmental laws date from pre-independence, but Namibia has also taken many legislative
steps since independence. The Ministry of Environment and Tourism (MET) has four directorates: Parks and Wildlife
Management, Scientific Services, Environmental Affairs and Tourism. The Directorate of Environmental Affairs is
responsible for Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA).
Namibia has drafted a Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan but it has not been approved yet. Mitigation is
addressed in it through sustainable energy provision and low-carbon development and transport. (Ruppel et al. 2011,
135.) The Strategic Action Plan for the Implementation of Renewable Energy Policies provides that the Renewable
Energy and Energy Efficiency Institute should be responsible also for environmental considerations. The Institute
should establish EIAs that consider energy needs within a socio-economic framework. (Ibid. 106).
3.2 ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PROJECTS
The Government guidelines (Procedures and Guidelines for Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and
Environmental Management Plan (EMP)), list activities for which a full SEA is required. Activities possibly related to
renewable energy include:

the erection or construction of facilities for the commercial generation of electricity with an output of more
than one megawatt

the erection or construction of facilities for the commercial transmission and supply of electricity with the
exception of power supply lines of less than 2 kilometres in length

the erection and construction of sewage treatment plants and associated infrastructure
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NAMIBIA report

the erection and construction of waste sites, including any facility for the final disposal or treatment of waste

the rezoning of land from

o
residential use to industrial or commercial use
o
light industrial use to heavy industrial use
o
agricultural use to industrial use
o
use for nature conservation or zoned open space to any other land-use
the import, processing, transit or export of waste
An EIA can also be a necessity for projects that seek international financing. The terms for EIA may vary according to
the funder or financial institution, and they do not necessarily approve national terms. Financial institutions often
follow “Equator Principles” or “IFC Standards” and, for example, the AfDB has its own guidelines. Both Namibian and
international EIA regulations stress strong stakeholder participation. According to Namibian guidelines, only once
residents have stated their views on the nature of specific impacts, will it be possible to decide which impacts should
be completely avoided from a social and cultural perspective and which require mitigating action. If opinions differ
between different groups, consensus should be sought. (MET, no date, 48).
According to an evaluation of EIA practice in Namibia, the foundation for EIA is solid with the systematic development
of policy and legal framework. However, even though the policy environment is good and the structures for
administration, guidance and quality control are partially in place, the system falls short when it comes to
implementation and monitoring. EIA is often applied in a selective and subjective way. (Tarr & Tarr, 2003, no page
numbering).
The Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) has studied the potential for wind energy at two locations in Namibia. The
studies included an Environmental Impact Assessment with site visits and data evaluation. According to the study,
noise and shadow flicker are not a problem in project areas. However, a study undertaken by the Ministry of
Environment and Tourism (MET) identified a possible danger for migratory and resident birds in certain areas. As a
result of studies, Luderitz was chosen a potential site for wind parks.
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-4ORANIZATIONS, SOURCES, REFERENCES
4.1 Organizations & Funding Possibilities
4.2 Sources of Information, References & Links
NAMIBIA report
22 (26)
4.1 ORGANIZATIONS & FUNDING POSSIBILITIES
ENERGY
The Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME) (link)

Enforces compliance with legal requirements on energy legislation and regulations, as well as conducting
research on renewable sources for energy. MME also issue petroleum licenses, set petroleum prices,
administers the National Energy Fund, regulates the oil industry, oversees rural electrification and
administers the Solar Electrification Revolving Fund.
Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Institute (REEEI) (link)

Is an arm of the Namibian Ministry of Mines and Energy created in collaboration with the Polytechnic
Institute of Namibia 2006 to serve as a national information resource centre for renewable energy and
sustainable energy use and management.

REEEI has taken over some of Ministry of Mines and Energy functions, like research and setting up energy
shops.
The Energy Control Board (ECB) (link)

Was created under the Electricity Act (2000). The Electricity Control Board (ECB) regulates the electricity
sector in terms of generation, transmission, distribution, supply, import and export. It is also pursuant to
powers given to it by the Electricity Act promulgated in 2000 and amended in 2007, following the enactment
of the Namibia Renewable Energy Programme.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) (link)

Has energy and environment as one of its focuses in Namibia. Current projects on climate change focus on
adaptation and energy efficiency.

UNDP supports the Global Environment Facility (GEF) that provides project funding. GEF is implemented by
UNDP, the World Bank and UNEP in Namibia. UNEP is one of the active organisations in Namibia, although it
does not have an office there.
OTHER
Ministry of Environment and Tourism (link)

Environmental matters are the responsibility of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism through its
Directorate of Environmental Affairs.

Is the designated national authority for Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). There are no registered CDM
projects in Namibia.
NAMIBIA report
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Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (link)

Offers various advocacy, information and capacity building services. The NCCI hosted a Namibia – Finland
Trade and Business Forum in May 2012. Finland has an embassy in Windhoek.
The University of Namibia (link)

Has been complimented for its efforts on the progression toward climate change and environmental
sustainability. The university has environmental initiatives such as solar heaters in the hostels, and the use of
airplays (non-fuel consuming vehicles) on its campus. Climate change is high on the university’s agenda and it
has been incorporated in many relevant courses run by the various faculties of the university. (Ruppel ym.
364). The University of Namibia is involved in United Nations University programme Capacity-Building in
South Africa, Namibia and Ghana to Create Sustainable, Non-Food Bio-Oil Supply Chains.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) (link)

Has a few projects in Namibia.
The World Bank (link)

Has three active projects in Namibia and a country office in Windhoek.
There is a large number of NGOs in Namibia. One of these is the Namibia Nature Foundation (link). On the webpage
are also links to several other NGOs or environmental project pages. International NGOs, like IUCN and WWF, have
projects in Namibia.
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4.2 SOURCES OF INFORMATION, REFERENCES & LINKS
Namibia: General facts
Finpro
Country analysis
Business
Link
Namibia Chamber of Commerce
and Industry
Trade
Business
Link
National Board of Customs of
Finland
Finnish trade (export and import) to specific
countries
Business
Link
Business
Link
Business
Link
Education
Link
World Bank
General
Link
The World Fact Book
CIA
General
Link
The Economist
The Economist Intelligence Unit
Latest data and analysis over countries
(newspaper)
General
Link
World Bank
Country Fact Sheet
General
Link
Wikipedia
General
Link
Embassy of Finland
General
Link
Suomi-Namibia Seura ry
General
Link
University of Namibia
General
Link
Environmental
Governance
Link
Government
Link
Africa Project
Finpro
Finpro
Enesco
Namibia Nature Foundation
The project results help Finnish growth companies
to succeed in Africa’s growing markets (project
completed by now).
Finpro South Africa Trade Center answers also
request for Angola, Botswana, Mozambique,
Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Education information in Namibia
NGO Information
Government of Namibia
eHow
Business Etiquette
Society
Link
Culture Crossing
Business Etiquette
Society
Link
International Tax
Deloitte
Taxation highlights in Namibia 2012
Business
Link
Country Energy Information
Developing Renewables
Business
Link
Doing Business
World Bank
Business
Link
Economic Outlook
AfDB, UN, OECD
Economy
Link
Country Risk Classification
Finnvera
Economy
Link
Corruption Perceptions Index
Transparency International
Society
Link
Country BTI Transformation Level
BTI Group
Economy
Link
BTI analyzes and evaluates the quality of
democracy, a market economy and political mgmt.
in 128 developing and transition countries
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Renewable Energy Country Profiles
International Energy Association
General
Link
International Renewable Energy
Agency (IRENA)
General
Link
Country profile, energy maps, tools, programs,
organizations & institutions
General
Link
Clean energy info portal
General
Link
Government
Link
Environmental
Governance
Link
Environmental
Governance
Link
Open Energy Info
Country Energy Profile &
Information
Reegle
Renewable Energies in Africa
European Commission, Joint
Research Centre
Global Environment Facility
The GEF unites 182 countries in partnership with
intl. institutions, civil society organizations, and
the private sector to address global env. issues
United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change
Clean Development Mechanism
The Energy and Environment
Partnership Africa
Project funding
Business
Link
MBendi
Economy, Risks, Industry, Business, Energy and a
lot of other information
Business
Link
African Development Bank
(AfDB)
Contains structured and analysed information on
economic, political and social status
General
Link
Directory of Development
Organizations
Contains list of development organizations in the
country
Society
Link
United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP)
Un-political information on country's status on
environmental, social and financial situation
General
Link
Oil and Gas Profile
A Barrel Full
Business
Link
Regulations for Strategic Env.
Assessment (SEA) and Env. Impact
Assessment (EIA)
Ministry of Environment and
Tourism
Environmental
Governance
Link
Namibia's Environmental
Assessment (EA) Process
Ministry of Environment and
Tourism
Environmental
Governance
Link
Wind Energy
Ministry of Mines and Energy
Government
Link
Environmental Law and Policy in
Namibia
Ruppel O. RuppelSchlichting K.
Environmental Impact Assessment
in Southern Africa
Tarr Peter, Tarr
Jacquie
The Southern African Institute
for Environmental Assessment
Published: Hanns Seidel Foundation 2011
Environmental
Governance
Published: In Tarr, Peter (ed.) 2003
Environmental
Governance
Namibia: Focus on Climate Change
UNDP
Environmental
Governance
Link
The White Paper on Energy Policy
1998
The Ministry of Mines and
Energy
Government
Link
Namibia Renewable Energy
Programme
UNDP
General
Link
The Ministry of Mines and
Energy
General
Link
The Ministry of Mines and
Energy
Business
Link
The Ministry of Mines and
Energy
Government
Link
The Energy Control Board
Government
Link
The Ministry of Environment and
Tourism
Government
Link
Off-grid energisation master plan
for Namibia 2007
Feasibility Assessment to replace
Diesel Pumps with Solar Pumps
Robert Schultz
Christoph
Schumann
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NAMIBIA report
Southern African Power Pool
(SAPP)
The members of SAPP have created common
power grid between their countries and a common
market for electricity. SAPP was founded in 1995
The Renewable Energy and
Energy Efficiency Institute
Business
Link
Education
Link
African Energy
Supplying solar, wind and power backup
equipment on a wholesale basis
Business
Link
Alternative Energy Africa
Information portal about alternative energy in
Africa
Business
Link
Inforse-Africa
International network for sustainable energy
Business
Link
Business
Link
Business
Link
Business
Link
Business
Link
Cleantech Knowledge Hub
Business
Link
The World Council for Renewable
Energy
Business
Link
International Network for
Sustainable Energy
Business
Link
African Wind Energy Association
Renewable Energy World
Conferences & Expo in Africa
Renewable Energy Africa
How We Made It in Africa
Insight into business in Africa
Herana Gateway
African higher education research
Education
Link
African Rural Energy Enterprise
Development
Community-based organization developing a
strategy for improved access to energy
Government
Link
African Center for Economic
Transformation
An economic policy institute supporting the longterm growth with transformation of African
economies
Government
Link
Nordic Development Fund
Project funding
Business
Link
Government
Link
Government
Link
Business
Link
Africa and Europe in Partnership
The Foundation for the
Development of Africa
Non-profit organization supporting sustainable
development
European Biomass Industry
Association
Global Network on Energy for
Sustainable Development
GNESD is a knowledge network facilitated by UN
Environmental Programme
Government
Link
Global Village Energy Partnership
GVEP works with local businesses in developing
countries to increase access to modern energy
Business
Link
World Resources Institute
WRI works with governments, companies, and civil
society to build solutions to urgent env. Changes
Government
Link
Economy
Link
The World Bank