WINDHOEK, March 5 (Xinhua) -- Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba on Wednesday emphasized energy security and affordability as critical pillars of the country's sustainable development.
Speaking at the official inauguration of the Anixas II Power Station in Walvis Bay, Mbumba highlighted Namibia's commitment to achieving energy self-reliance while ensuring that electricity remains affordable for all citizens.
He noted that energy is the foundation of modern economies and stressed the need for a diversified energy mix to bolster the nation's resilience against global and regional energy shocks.
"Energy security is not about isolation but about resilience and strategic cooperation," Mbumba said, referring to Namibia's current reliance on electricity imports, which account for 40 to 70 percent of its supply, depending on fluctuating regional conditions.
He cautioned that over-reliance on imports is unsustainable, given the constraints faced by neighboring countries.
The president underscored the importance of expanding renewable energy resources and positioning Namibia as a future electricity exporter within the region.
He called for innovative solutions to make electricity and other public goods more affordable, particularly for underserved communities, through methods such as cross-subsidization and new technologies.
Mbumba reiterated the government's goal of achieving 900 megawatts of installed energy capacity by 2030, as outlined in the manifesto of the South West Africa People's Organisation, Namibia's ruling party.
