The Global African Hydrogen Summit, held in Windhoek from September 3 to 5, marked a major milestone in Africa’s journey toward green industrialisation.
Bringing together over 1,000 participants, the summit laid the foundation for Africa’s clean energy future through several multi-million-euro deals and strategic partnerships.
The event underscored the continent's potential to lead in the hydrogen sector, attracting global interest and investment. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Vice President of Namibia, welcomed the attendees and highlighted Namibia’s commitment to advancing green industrialisation.
"Namibia is honoured to have been chosen to host the Global African Hydrogen Summit," she stated. The Vice President’s comments were echoed by the event’s patron, Tom Alweendo, Namibia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, who described the summit as a "first-of-its-kind platform" aimed at unlocking new opportunities for Africa’s hydrogen economy.
One of the most significant outcomes of the summit was the signing of several agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs). Among these, a €25 million (R491 million) grant from the European Union stands out as a vital boost for Namibia’s Green Industrialisation Agenda.
The funds will be channelled through the SDG Namibia One financing vehicle to support green hydrogen projects, energy planning, and renewable energy integration.
Other key announcements included Zhero’s launch of a green ammonia project aimed at producing 500,000 tonnes annually by 2029, as well as GreenGo Energy’s partnership with InnoSun Energy Holdings to co-develop solar and wind projects for hydrogen production.
These initiatives, among others, reflect a growing interest from both international and local stakeholders in positioning Namibia as a leader in green hydrogen production.
Namibia’s role as a focal point for green hydrogen development was further solidified by an MoU between the Namibian government and the US, focusing on renewable and clean energy cooperation.
The Namibian Green Hydrogen Programme (NGH2P), supported by the International Energy Agency, also announced plans to explore new renewable energy opportunities in the country.
Summit organisers emphasised the importance of addressing social equity in the development of the hydrogen sector.
The involvement of African Practice and the Environmental Defence Fund in advancing climate action through partnerships demonstrates the summit’s broader commitment to integrating sustainability with social inclusion.
James Mnyupe, head of the Namibian Green Hydrogen Programme, hailed the event as a success, noting its return to Namibia in 2025. With deals signed and strategic partnerships forged, the summit has laid the groundwork for Africa’s hydrogen future.
IOL