EDITORIAL: Did Namibia’s green-hydrogen dream die with Geingob?

The abrupt resignation of James Mnyupe, once the face of Namibia’s green-hydrogen push, has reignited doubts over whether the country’s most ambitious development dream is running out of steam. His exit – reportedly fueled by dwindling political support under the current administration – stands in stark contrast to the relentless drive of the late President Hage Geingob, who sold Namibia’s hydrogen vision to boardrooms and parliaments across the world.

At stake is not just a pet project but a national ambition of historic scale. The Hyphen Hydrogen Energy development, valued at nearly US$10 billion, promises renewable generation of 7 GW and green ammonia exports worth as much as Namibia’s entire GDP. Germany has pledged €40 million, the EU has mobilised €1.3 billion, and the World Bank has approved a US$138.5 million loan for transmission upgrades. At home, pilot initiatives and preparatory work have already attracted more than N$2 billion.

But money and memoranda do not guarantee progress. Hydrogen megaprojects thrive only where political will is steady, governance is clear, and buyers are secured through ironclad agreements. Without these ingredients, investor enthusiasm quickly evaporates.

Still, the flame has not been snuffed out. Civil-society concerns about land rights, community benefits, and transparency remain urgent – but solvable. What cannot wait is the need for leadership to elevate hydrogen above party lines and personalities. If treated as a national priority, this venture could transform Namibia’s industrial future. If left to drift, it risks becoming a cautionary tale of grand promises gone sour.

The chapter is not yet closed. Whether Namibia writes itself into the history books as Africa’s green hydrogen pioneer – or as a country that fumbled its perceived biggest opportunity – will depend on the choices its leaders make today.