Namport cancels Lüderitz oil and gas tender

The Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) has abruptly cancelled a pre-qualification tender for a new oil and gas supply base at Lüderitz, just days after the process was launched.

Namibia has become a rising exploration hotspot following major offshore discoveries by Shell, TotalEnergies, Galp, and Rhino Resources. With plans to deliver first oil by 2030, Lüderitz has been earmarked as the country’s future energy hub.

The sudden cancellation has sparked uncertainty in the coastal town, where expectations were high for port infrastructure development linked to the oil and gas sector. Lüderitz mayor Phillipus Balhao said residents had placed their hopes on the project, describing it as key to unlocking new economic opportunities.

Namport has not publicly given reasons for scrapping the process, but stakeholders say clarity will be crucial for investor confidence as Namibia positions itself in the global energy market.