Authors : Custon Ziwoni

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 6 - June

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/4wd5tm4t

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25jun1001

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Namibia’s recent oil discovery presents a transformative opportunity for the Southern African Development Community (SADC), reshaping economic prospects, energy security, and regional development. This discovery has the potential to attract substantial foreign investment, create employment opportunities, and strengthen local industries, contributing to sustainable growth. It also has the potential to transform the economic landscape of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). As the country emerges as a key player in the regional energy sector, the oil industry is expected to drive economic expansion through increased investment, infrastructure development, and job creation. Furthermore, it may redefine SADC’s energy landscape by reducing dependency on external sources and fostering intra- regional trade. This paper explores how Namibia’s oil industry can enhance energy security, stimulate regional trade, geopolitical future and promote industrial growth within SADC. However, it also examines the challenges associated with resource governance, environmental sustainability, equitable resource distribution and equitable economic distribution must be addressed to maximize the benefits. By analyzing these factors, this study provides insights into how Namibia’s oil sector can contribute to broader regional development while ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth.

Keywords : Namibia, Oil Industry, SADC (Southern African Development Community), Economic Expansion, Energy Security, Investment Opportunities, Infrastructure Development, Regional Trade, Industrial Growth, Natural Resources, Governance & Sustainability, Environmental Impact, Job Creation, Oil Reserves and Global Energy Markets.

References :

1. Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) (2025). The 3rd Namibia Oil and Gas Conference: Positioning Namibia as the Next Energy Frontier.
2. Resource Digest (2024). Namibia Launches $2.1 Billion Port Expansion to Support Oil Industry Growth.
3. Namibia Oil and Gas (2023). SADC Gas Developments Stimulate Long-Term Economic Growth.
4. Bank of Namibia (2022). Economic Impact of Namibia’s Oil Discoveries on Regional Trade and Investment.
5. Moyo, T. (2019). Oil Price Fluctuations and Their Effects on SADC Economies. Journal of African Economic Studies.
6. Namhindo, P. (2020). Resource Governance and Economic Growth in Namibia’s Oil Sector.
7. United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER) (2021). Infrastructure Development and Trade Efficiency in SADC.
8. Government of the Republic of Namibia. (2017). National Energy Policy, 2017. Windhoek: Republic of Namibia, Ministry of Mines and Energy.
9. Government of the Republic of Namibia. (2007). Model Petroleum Agreement. Windhoek: Republic of Namibia, Ministry of Mines and Energy.
10. The Fifth National Development Plans (NDP5), 2017/18-2021/22. Windhoek: Republic of Namibia, National Planning Commission of Namibia.
11. Government of the Republic of Namibia. (2021). Harambee Prosperity Plan II: Action Plan of the Namibian Government Towards Economic Recovery and Inclusive Growth 2021-2025.
12. Madakufamba, M. (2010) Expanding energy generation capacity in SADC.