NCCI calls for holistic local content policy

The Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) has called on the government to develop an all encompassing local content policy in addition to the specific sectoral policy instruments currently in development.

NCCI President Bisey Uirab welcomed the development of sectoral local content policy interventions, but noted the need for an overarching policy aimed at driving inputs to inform sectoral developments.

“The government of Namibia is currently drafting a Local Content Policy that will regulate the participation of Namibian businesses in various sectors, including energy, mining, and manufacturing. NCCI is consulting to ensure that the policy supports local businesses while also making it attractive for all investors to participate in the economy,” Uirab said.

Uirab however would not downplay sectoral policy interventions.

“While the development of local content policy for specific sectors is noted, we would like to see the development of a comprehensive national framework for local content which will inform and guide sectoral policy developments.

Cabinet in December 2024 approved the National Upstream Local Content Policy.

The policy is set to play a crucial role in reducing Namibia’s dependence on foreign expertise by focusing on the development of local capacity.

Aimed at strengthening economic sovereignty and empowering Namibians within the country’s oil and gas industry, the policy marks a turning point for the country as it targets its first oil production by 2029, the ministry of mines said of the policy instrument.

The National Upstream Local Content Policy spells out the Government of the Republic of Namibia’s intent, direction and undertaking to create a pathway for the full participation of all Namibians in the petroleum sector, according to the mines ministry.