Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Matthew Dlamini
Published on 2024-03-26 13:43:55
African countries, including Namibia, have been urged to harness their abundant natural resources to produce green hydrogen in order to achieve energy independence and promote zero-carbon industrialization. Anna Shiweda, the deputy minister of agriculture, water, and land reform, emphasized this point at the Green Hydrogen Symposium in Windhoek.
Shiweda highlighted the potential for economic growth, job creation, and energy export opportunities that could result from the development of green hydrogen. Namibia is currently working on a US$10 billion green hydrogen project near Lüderitz with support from Germany.
The symposium, organized under the theme ‘Green Hydrogen in Practice: Green Hydrogen Pilot Projects and Youth for Green Hydrogen Scholarships,’ aims to address the role of green hydrogen in combating climate change. Shiweda stressed the importance of green hydrogen as a clean energy solution to limit global warming to no more than 1.5°C.
African countries, particularly those in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), face a range of challenges including climate change, low economic growth rates, and poverty. Shiweda believes that a green hydrogen industry could help address these challenges and contribute to sustainable development in the region.
She commended the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (Sasscal) for its efforts in promoting sustainable development in agriculture, woodlands, forestry, climate, biodiversity, and water since its establishment in 2010. She acknowledged the financial support from Germany and the commitment of Sasscal member states, including Angola, Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia, which have enabled the organization to carry out its programs and projects seamlessly.
The symposium provides a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders in the green hydrogen sector. By bringing together experts, policymakers, and industry leaders, the event aims to drive innovation and accelerate the adoption of green hydrogen technologies in Africa.
Shiweda emphasized the need for African countries to seize the opportunity presented by green hydrogen to diversify their economies, create new job opportunities, and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. She encouraged more collaboration between governments, development partners, and the private sector to support the growth of the green hydrogen industry in Africa.
In conclusion, the Green Hydrogen Symposium in Windhoek serves as a catalyst for the transition to a sustainable and low-carbon future in Africa. By leveraging their natural resources and investing in green hydrogen technologies, African countries can unlock new economic opportunities, mitigate climate change, and secure a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Read the original article on The Namibian
