EU Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, is currently on a pivotal visit to Namibia and South Africa, aimed at strengthening the European Union’s energy ties with these key African nations.

The visit underscores the importance of collaboration in renewable energy and green hydrogen, as the EU seeks to enhance its strategic partnerships in the context of global energy transitions.

The foundation for this collaboration was laid in October 2023 when the EU and Namibia endorsed a strategic partnership focused on sustainable raw materials and renewable hydrogen.

This partnership is backed by an impressive €1 billion investment from the EU, its member states, and European financial institutions, aimed at supporting the development of green energy initiatives in Namibia.

During her visit, Commissioner Simson is participating in the Global African Hydrogen Summit in Windhoek, which serves as a critical platform for discussing Africa’s role in the global energy transition.

The summit features key discussions and panels that highlight the potential of hydrogen and clean energy industries in Africa.

Notably, the summit will include signing ceremonies for several EU-funded programs designed to support Namibia’s clean energy transition and hydrogen sector development.

Simson’s agenda includes visits to significant energy-related projects in Namibia, such as the HyIron site, which focuses on green iron production, and the Port of Walvis Bay, which is being developed into a regional industrial and logistics hub.

Another important initiative is the “Towards an Inclusive Design of the Renewable Energy Transition” (TIDRET) project, which aims to enhance access to affordable and clean energy, particularly for vulnerable communities.

In addition to these project visits, Commissioner Simson has scheduled meetings with Namibian government officials, private companies, and civil society organizations.

The discussions will center on energy partnerships, collaboration on hydrogen production and trade, further solidifying the EU’s commitment to supporting Namibia’s energy transition.

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Following her engagement in Namibia, Commissioner Simson will travel to South Africa on September 9, where she will meet with key officials, including the Minister for Energy and Electricity, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa.

Discussions will focus on the green hydrogen agenda and the EU’s support for developing South Africa’s electricity transmission grid.

Simson will also engage with the Minister for Trade, Industry and Competition, Mpho Parks Tau, to explore collaboration on critical raw materials and value chains, including electric vehicles and batteries.

The broader implications of Commissioner Simson’s visit are significant. Strengthening EU-Africa energy ties is crucial in the context of global energy security, particularly as Namibia and South Africa emerge as leaders in renewable energy and green hydrogen production.

The EU’s commitment to supporting these initiatives reflects a strategic approach to fostering sustainable energy solutions that can benefit both regions.

By fostering international collaboration, the EU aims to support sustainable energy goals and position African nations as key players in the global energy transition.

This partnership not only promises to advance clean energy technologies but also contributes to economic growth and energy security for both Africa and Europe.