The Namibia-German Green Hydrogen Research and Development Conference, held from June 4-5, 2025, in Windhoek, has been hailed as a significant Milestone in advancing green hydrogen initiatives, particularly showcasing the progress of the Daures Green Hydrogen Village Project – Africa’s pioneering integrated green hydrogen village.

The event was jointly organized by the Namibia Green Hydrogen Research Institute (NGHRI) of the University of Namibia (UNAM), in partnership with the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL), and the Institute of Energy Economics and Rational Energy Use (IER) at the University of Stuttgart, Germany. The conference brought together approximately 123 participants, including 102 in-person attendees and 21 virtual participants, representing a diverse mix of local and international partner stakeholders. This strong turnout underscores the increasing regional and global recognition of Namibia’s leadership in green hydrogen research and innovation.

As a key implementing partner, SASSCAL played a vital role, delivering insightful remarks in its experience in funding and monitoring development projects and fostering crucial knowledge exchange throughout the conference.

The conference featured a plenary session with over 15 research presentations centered on the Daures Green Hydrogen Village and related research findings. The diverse range of topics underscored the multi-faceted approach to green hydrogen development and its broader implications. Topics included:

• Life-cycle assessments of green hydrogen production
• Water extraction and treatment from brine sources
• Green ammonia-based fertilizers and soil fertility in desert agriculture
• Techno-economic modelling and national energy system pathways
• Hydrogen infrastructure materials and corrosion-resistant coatings
• Environmental compliance, biodiversity monitoring, and conservation
• Gender inclusion and community perceptions
• Skills localisation and workforce readiness for PtX technologies

Beyond presenting current research, the conference also provided an opportunity to reflect on the significant progress achieved since the award of the Joint Communiqué of Intent (JCoI). This crucial initiative is implemented by SASSCAL on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) in close partnership with the Government of the Republic of Namibia, highlighting the strong bilateral commitment to sustainable development.

The insightful two-day event concluded with site visit to the Daures Green Hydrogen Village. The participants had an opportunity to a guided tour of the established facilities and infrastructures from the research and training facilities, housing infrastructures, camping site and eco lodge infrastructures, hydrogen and ammonia generation assets, solar park, battery storage, reverse osmosis system, green house and nursery and water storage tanks. At the same time, the participants also had a chance to visit the wastewater treatment system. The project is about 80% complete. This living demonstration serves as a powerful demonstration of Namibia’s unwavering commitment to climate-smart innovation and sustainable development, showcasing tangible progress in the green hydrogen sector. Moreover, Daures Green Hydrogen Village demonstrate the concept of food-water-energy nexus which is crucial for sustainable resource management and planning, particularly in the context of climate change and growing populations.

SASSCAL extends sincere gratitude to all the dedicated researchers, engaging speakers, enthusiastic students, and invaluable partners who contributed to making this impactful event a resounding success. The collaborative spirit throughout the conference fostered meaningful dialogue and strengthened the foundation for future scientific partnerships in green hydrogen.

Our sincere appreciation also goes to BMFTR, the Federal Republic of Germany, the Government of the Republic of Namibia, and all our project partners for their continued trust, collaboration, and contributions to the success of the conference.