President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has emphasized the need for Namibians to receive first priority in employment and skills development opportunities arising from the N$41 billion Dangote Namibia Tank Farm and Regional Pipeline Project. Speaking at the official launch at Farm 58 in Walvis Bay, she stated that the investment should equip Namibians with skills that would remain useful beyond the completion of the project. The President's comments highlight the government's focus on ensuring that the project benefits the local population.
The Dangote project is expected to include a petroleum storage facility with a capacity of about 600 million litres, comprising 360 million litres of diesel and 240 million litres of petrol. It also includes plans for a regional pipeline network of approximately 1 700 kilometres linking Walvis Bay to markets in neighbouring countries. This infrastructure is anticipated to improve fuel distribution and reduce costs for landlocked countries, according to Dangote Group chairman and chief executive Aliko Dangote.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed that the project should not only create employment but also provide workers with skills that could make them competitive in the international job market. She added that workers could also support their families through savings sent home, contributing to the country's reserves. The President's vision for the project is to have a lasting impact on the country's economic development.
The President also announced plans to broaden the local content framework beyond the oil and gas sector to cover investment across Namibia. This move is expected to create more opportunities for local businesses and individuals to participate in the country's economic growth. Nandi-Ndaitwah initially concentrated on local content in the oil and gas sector but will now expand it to cover investment across Namibia.
Aliko Dangote emphasized that the investment was intended to improve fuel distribution and reduce costs for landlocked countries. He said the group remained committed to local procurement and community engagement, adding that the company would create opportunities for Namibian contractors, transporters, professionals, and small businesses. Dangote also mentioned that construction of the tank farm was expected to take between 18 and 20 months.
Erongo Governor Nathalia /Goagoses welcomed the investment, saying it could strengthen the region's position as a gateway for trade, investment, and economic integration. She recognized the significance of this investment and looked forward to a mutually beneficial partnership, emphasizing that sustainable development can only be achieved through strong partnerships, collaboration, and a shared vision.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah also called for more investment in processing and adding value to the country's mineral resources. She expressed her desire to see more plants that add value to the mineral resources in Namibia. The President's comments underscore the importance of value addition in the country's economic development.
Key points
- The Dangote project is expected to create employment opportunities and provide workers with skills that could make them competitive in the international job market.
