EIF and Green Hydrogen Programme pursue climate funding for key southern Namibia projects

By: Hertha Ekandjo

The Environmental Investment Fund (EIF) of Namibia, in collaboration with the Namibia Green Hydrogen Programme (NGH2P), has developed three ambitious concept notes for potential funding by the Green Climate Fund (GCF).

These projects are set to transform the southern region’s economy and energy landscape through innovative green hydrogen and renewable energy initiatives.

The proposed projects include the development of a new Green Hydrogen Plant under the Southern Corridor Development Initiative (SCDI), the Neckartal Green Scheme Fertiliser Plant, which will utilise green hydrogen for irrigation and fertiliser production as well as an offshore Wind Project in Lüderitz, designed to suwpply renewable power to the hydrogen facility.

As part of the preparatory phase, the EIF and NGH2P hosted stakeholder engagement sessions in the //Karas Region on the 7th of May in Lüderitz and 9th of May in Keetmanshoop.

These sessions aimed to raise awareness and gather community input on the draft concept notes ahead of submission to the Green Climate Fund.

The initiative is part of a broader GCF-funded readiness project titled “Developing key legislation, regulation, policies, and concept notes for climate action in Namibia,” which is jointly implemented by the EIF and NGH2P.

The project also aims to enhance climate finance coordination and build institutional capacity within both the Green Hydrogen Programme and the National Planning Commission.

On the 6th of May, a high-level delegation from EIF, NGH2P, and the National Planning Commission paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of the //Karas Region, Aletha Frederick. Frederick applauded the initiative, noting the importance of ensuring that the projects deliver tangible benefits to the residents of the region. “Citizen participation must be a cornerstone of this development,” she emphasised.

Deputy Mayor of Lüderitz, Josephine Heita, echoed similar sentiments, calling for the projects to directly address youth unemployment and infrastructure development in the town.

Keetmanshoop Mayor, Annelize Knaus, has also expressed her support, highlighting her town’s strategic location near key infrastructure that can support the green hydrogen economy.

“The Neckartal Hydrogen Farm and green ammonia-based fertiliser production have the potential to make a real impact on Namibia’s economy, food systems, and job creation, especially for the youth,” she said.