Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson is visiting Namibia and will travel to South Africa on Monday, 9 September, to bolster the European Union’s energy ties with these African nations, focusing on hydrogen cooperation.
Strategic Partnership and Investments
This visit follows the endorsement of a strategic partnership roadmap for sustainable raw materials value chains and renewable hydrogen, agreed upon by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Namibian President Hage Geingob in October 2023. This roadmap is fortified by a €1 billion investment from the EU, its Member States, and European financial institutions.
Participation in the Global African Hydrogen Summit
Commissioner Simson will attend the Global African Hydrogen Summit in Windhoek during her stay in Namibia. She will participate in discussions on critical topics, including ‘Delivering Africa’s Energy Transition Through The Development Of The Global Energy Map’ and a ministerial panel on ‘Africa’s Hydrogen & Clean Energy Frontiers: The Industry’s Next Major Opportunities’, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.
New Initiatives and Site Visits
On Wednesday, she will witness the signing of several EU-funded programs aimed at supporting Namibia’s clean energy transition and hydrogen development. Following this, a press conference will be held. Commissioner Simson’s itinerary also includes visits to energy projects such as the ‘HyIron’ green iron production site and the Port of Walvis Bay, poised to become an industrial and logistics hub with EU backing. Another highlight is the ‘Towards an Inclusive Design of the Renewable Energy Transition’ (TIDRET) project, which promotes affordable and clean energy access, especially in vulnerable communities.
Engagement with Namibian Stakeholders
Throughout her time in Windhoek, Commissioner Simson will engage with Namibian authorities, firms, and civil society organizations, affirming the EU’s commitment to collaborative clean energy ventures.
Focus on South Africa: Hydrogen and Infrastructure
Commissioner Simson’s visit to Pretoria, South Africa, on 9 September involves crucial talks with Energy and Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramogkopa. Their discussions will cover the green hydrogen agenda and EU involvement in enhancing South Africa’s electricity grid. She will also confer with Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Mpho Parks Tau, focusing on cooperation relating to critical raw materials and value chains, including electric vehicles and batteries.
