The Green Hydrogen Symposium, hosted by the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL), proved to be a resounding success, attracting over 150 participants from various sectors Namibian Presidency, BMBF, relevant Line Ministries, the German Embassy in Windhoek, the European Union, SASSCAL Member States, research institutions, industry players, students, and the media. Held at the Windhoek Country Club in Namibia from March 26th to 27th, 2024, the symposium centered on the theme “Green Hydrogen in Practice: Pilot Projects and Y4H2 Scholarships.”

Speaking on behalf of the Namibia President HE Nangolo Mbumba, Honorable Obeth Kandjoze Chairperson of Namibia Green Hydrogen Council and Director General of the National Planning Commission delivered an insightful speech surrounding the advancements and achievements in the Green Hydrogen sector within Namibia. Honourable Kandjoze underscored the timeliness of the Green Hydrogen Symposium, noting that it coincides with the realization of aspirations outlined in the Joint Communique of Intent (JCOI). He emphasized the proactive efforts of both the German and Namibian governments in advancing opportunities for the development of the green hydrogen economy. This acknowledgment highlights the pivotal moment at which the symposium is taking place, reflecting the momentum and commitment towards realizing sustainable energy solutions.

The symposium facilitated fruitful discussions and networking opportunities among stakeholders. Participants explored future collaboration opportunities, paving the way for sustainable initiatives in the Green Hydrogen sector. Honourable Anna Shiweda, MP, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, emphasized the significance of international and regional collaboration in fostering the development of the shared hydrogen economy. She highlighted that such collaborative efforts would be instrumental in devising action plans that set a standard for the success and realization of Green Hydrogen production potential. This sentiment underscores the importance of collective action and partnership in driving forward the agenda of sustainable energy solutions.

Mr. Stefan Müller, Head of the department “Provision for the Future – Research for Fundamentals and Sustainable Development” at BMBF, echoed the sentiment of international collaboration. He highlighted Namibia’s significant potential in green hydrogen production and emphasized the importance of the strategic partnership with Germany for strengthening this initiative. Furthermore, Mr. Müller stressed the vital role of international collaboration in combating climate change, acknowledging the symposium’s importance as a platform for fostering global cooperation towards sustainable solutions.

Overall, the outcomes of the Green Hydrogen Symposium contribute significantly to the development of a clear and achievable upscaling plan for a Green Hydrogen economy in Namibia. The overwhelming support and active participation from diverse stakeholders underscore the growing momentum and collective commitment towards sustainable energy solutions. Hon Natalia Goagoses, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Technology and Innovation delivering her remarks on behalf of Minister of Higher Education, Technology and Innovation Hon. Dr. Ita Kandji-Murangi, she emphasized the transformative impact of Green Hydrogen in Namibia following the signing of the Joint Communique of Intent between Germany and Namibia. She highlighted that Green Hydrogen has already begun to make a significant impact in Namibia, reflecting the tangible outcomes of the collaborative efforts between the two nations.

In her opening remarks, Dr Jane Olwoch noted the need to align one “Earth and One World” phenomena in which we recognise one earth , but exploit  the earth resources for individual benefits without caring. “Each each community, each country, strives for survival and prosperity with little regard for its impact on others.  Some consume the Earth’s resources at a rate that would leave little for future generations. Others, many more in number, consume far too little and live with the prospect of hunger, disease, and early death.”  Report of the World Commission on Environment and Development: Our Common Future, October 1987.

But today, Dr Jane Olwoch remarked that we are demonstrating that it is possible to create one Earth and one world in the context of the Green Hydrogen Partnership between Germany and Namibia. The Green Hydrogen Symposium served as a beacon of collaboration, innovation, and progress, reaffirming the collective commitment towards a greener and more sustainable future. As stakeholders continue to navigate the evolving landscape of Green Hydrogen, the symposium’s outcomes pave the way for tangible actions and partnerships to realize the potential of this transformative energy source.

Panel discussions formed the backbone of the symposium, each addressing crucial aspects of the Green Hydrogen economy:

1. SADC Governments Preparedness for Green Hydrogen: Government officials and representatives from Southern Africa provided valuable insights into the readiness of SADC governments for the Green Hydrogen economy. The panel acknowledged regional initiatives and emphasized the importance of national preparedness.

2. Youth for Green Hydrogen (Y4H2) Programme: The symposium highlighted the academic cooperation partnership under the Y4H2 Scholarship Program, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing young talent in the field of Green Hydrogen. Scholarship recipients showcased their contributions and the impact of the program on their academic and professional journeys.

3. SADC Industry Players: Key industry players shared perspectives on the role and opportunities presented by Green Hydrogen across various sectors including mining, energy, transportation, oil and gas, manufacturing, and more. The panel discussions provided a comprehensive understanding of the potential for Green Hydrogen adoption and its implications for sustainable development.

   

As the Green Hydrogen sector continues to evolve, events like these serve as catalysts for innovation, collaboration, and progress, driving us closer to a greener and more sustainable future. The symposium concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Jane Olwoch, SASSCAL Executive Director, underscoring the significance of collaboration and innovation in driving sustainable energy solutions.

As anticipated, the symposium showcased significant progress and results of pilot projects under the Joint Communique of Intent (JCoI), while also shedding light on ongoing capacity building initiatives through the Youth for Green Hydrogen (Y4H2) Scholarship Program.