Thelma Simtowikeni, CEO of strategic advisory firm RichAfrica Consultancy, participated in the African Energy Chamber (AEC) G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum in Johannesburg on 21 November. Her participation marks a defining moment for Namibia, as the country accelerates oil and gas exploration and development following a string of world-class discoveries in recent years. During the forum, Simtwikeni is expected to share insights on how the country is turning ocean discoveries into a catalyst for inclusive economic growth.
Namibia’s oil and gas industry has attracted global attention over the past three years, with discoveries by TotalEnergies, Shell and Galp Energia making it one of the most important new hydrocarbon efforts globally. Recent estimates put the country’s reserves at about 11 billion barrels of oil and 2.2 trillion cubic feet of gas, highlighting the abundance of development opportunities in its ocean basins. The country is currently aiming to achieve its first oil production by 2029. This is an outcome that has the potential to transform the economy, strengthen energy security and establish Namibia as a new pillar of oil and gas production in Africa.
Exploration continues to be a hot topic in the country’s Orange Basin, as both international energy companies and independent explorers pursue new discoveries. Highlights include Rhino Resources’ announcement of a discovery in the Voltans-1X well in October 2025; This discovery follows a series of successes including the discoveries of Sagittarius-1X and Capricornus-1X. Oregen Energy Corporation expands its presence in Namibia by acquiring a 33.95% stake in Block 2712A, and Sintana Energy has extended its PEL 79 license by 12 months. The company has stakes in five offshore assets and one onshore license across three basins and is seeking a partner to fund drilling operations at PEL 87. Beyond the Orange Basin, independent operators are advancing exploration work in the offshore Walvis Basin and onshore Kavango Basin. ReconAfrica will drill the onshore Kavango West-1X well in 2025, with results expected to be announced later this year.
As countries strive to monetize discoveries, the role of good governance, comprehensive policy frameworks, and effective stakeholder collaboration becomes increasingly important in ensuring economic growth. Companies such as RichAfrica Consultancy play a critical role in this process by bridging policy, business and community interests. The company’s commitment to regulatory alignment, stakeholder engagement and responsible investment reflects its commitment to balancing commercial growth with environmental and social responsibility. These capabilities are essential to form the framework that guides exploration, production and revenue management as Namibia prepares for first oil.
“At this pivotal stage in Namibia’s energy story, institutions like RichAfrica Consultancy are bringing together the legal, social and commercial expertise needed to turn discoveries into long-term national prosperity. With strong private sector leadership, Namibia has a real opportunity to become a model for sustainable energy development in Africa.What is important now is to ensure that investments are linked to jobs, skills and long-term value for Namibians.” Ayuk says. AEC.
Pay attention to forums, cliques.
