Namibia’s Oil and Gas Boom: A New Frontier for Energy Investment
Namibia’s oil and gas sector is attracting global investment, with major developments in the Orange Basin and Walvis Basin. Learn how Chevron, Supernova Metals, and TotalEnergies are shaping the future of Namibia’s energy industry.
The Namibian oil and gas industry is experiencing a historic transformation, drawing significant foreign investment, cutting-edge exploration technologies, and increased global attention. With promising developments in the Orange Basin and Walvis Basin, major players like Chevron, TotalEnergies, and Supernova Metals are positioning themselves for long-term success.
This blog post explores the latest industry updates, the potential of the Orange Basin, and how Namibia is emerging as an African energy hub.
The Growing Potential of Namibia’s Oil & Gas Sector
Namibia has long been considered an underexplored oil and gas region. Despite having a 1,300 km coastline, fewer than 25 offshore wells have been drilled. However, recent advancements and favorable regulatory conditions are shifting the landscape.
1. Supernova Metals Expands into the Orange Basin
One of the most exciting developments in Namibia’s energy sector is Supernova Metals Corporation’s entry into the Orange Basin.
The Canadian company has initiated a technical evaluation of its newly acquired assets through an NI 51-101 report.
The study is conducted by UK-based 05 Management Limited and Pioneer Oil and Gas Consulting Limited.
The Orange Basin is considered one of Africa’s most attractive exploration frontiers, drawing billions in investment due to:
Favorable geological conditions
Modern exploration technology
Supportive government policies
With Supernova Metals joining other major players like TotalEnergies and Galp, the basin’s potential is expected to be further unlocked.
2. Chevron’s Strategic Expansion in Namibia
Global energy giant Chevron has strengthened its presence in Namibia’s offshore sector by acquiring an 80% operating interest in Block P82 in the Walvis Basin.
The deal was completed through Cus Energy, marking a significant step in Chevron’s regional strategy.
Why is Block P82 important?
Extensive seismic data has revealed promising signs of hydrocarbons.
Prior drilling activities indicate a high likelihood of commercial oil reserves.
The block is one of the most attractive exploration zones in the country.
Chevron is already active in Block P90 in the Orange Basin, where it drilled its first deepwater well. Although initial drilling results weren’t commercially viable, they provided critical geological insights that will shape future drilling strategies.
3. The Orange Basin: High Risk, High Reward?
Namibia’s Orange Basin has attracted massive international interest, but exploration remains a high-risk, high-reward venture.
According to Wood Mackenzie, the basin has strong long-term potential, despite Shell’s recent setbacks.
Shell’s PL39 license area saw mixed results:
Nine wells were drilled, with some hydrocarbon discoveries.
The Cinnamon-1X well was declared dry.
Shell wrote off its $400 million exploration campaign in the region.
However, companies like TotalEnergies and Galp have reported positive results, ensuring continued investment in the Orange Basin.
4. Petrofund and SBM Offshore: Investing in Namibian Talent
A critical component of Namibia’s energy ambitions is workforce development. To address this, Petrofund and SBM Offshore have partnered to build local capacity in the oil and gas sector.
Key Highlights of the Partnership:
Internship programs for Namibians to gain hands-on experience.
Six Namibian graduates are currently in training in Malaysia and Namibia.
Seventeen Namibians are undergoing advanced training in France, Angola, and Malaysia.
The initiative will ensure Namibians have the necessary skills to participate in the country’s growing energy industry.
According to Melan Mami, CEO of Petrofund, this partnership is a major step toward preparing the local workforce for the upcoming job opportunities in oil and gas.
5. Namibia International Energy Conference 2025
Namibia is solidifying its role as an African energy hub, and the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) 2025 will be a pivotal event in shaping the future of the sector.
Event Details:
Date: April 23-25, 2025
Location: Windhoek Country Club Resort
Theme:“Leading the Way: Becoming an Energy Hub with In-Country Value.”
Key Topics to Be Discussed:
Namibia’s Upstream Local Content Policy – How will it shape workforce development?
Supply Chain Integration – Strategies to improve efficiency in oil and gas operations.
The Future of the Orange Basin – Insights from companies like Chevron, Shell, TotalEnergies, and SBM Offshore.
The conference will be an essential platform for government officials, industry leaders, and investors to discuss Namibia’s strategic role in global energy markets.
Final Thoughts on Namibia’s Oil & Gas Boom
Final Thoughts on Namibia’s Oil & Gas Boom
Namibia’s oil and gas sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, with:
Major international investments from companies like Chevron, Supernova Metals, and TotalEnergies.
Expanding exploration activities in the Orange Basin and Walvis Basin.
Significant talent development initiatives through partnerships like Petrofund & SBM Offshore.
Upcoming discussions at the Namibia International Energy Conference 2025 to shape future policies and opportunities.
Although exploration remains risky, the long-term outlook is positive, and Namibia is well on its way to becoming a key player in Africa’s energy transformation.
