Namibia and Belgium have made history by inaugurating the first green hydrogen fuel station and production plant near Walvis Bay.
President Nangolo Mbumba and the King of the Belgians lauded the Cleanergy Solutions initiative, which has positioned Namibia as a frontrunner in the global green hydrogen economy.
Cleanergy Solutions Namibia is a joint venture between local company Ohlthaver and List Group and Belgian CMB Tech.
Six months ago, when the late President Hage Geingob visited the site, there was slight progress.
The site has since transformed into a functioning green hydrogen facility, much to the delight of the current president of Namibia and King Phillipe.
"Our late President used to say that three years ago he did not know anything about it, but he took time and energy, went around, visited countries, he was good at gaining friendships with all people, at a local and higher level, and now we are here, and I think one of these institutions, roads, power lines, or whatever, should carry the name Hage Gottfried Geingob, because if it were not for him, we would not have the courage to talk to bigger people. We would not have the courage to talk about having employment in a new field," said Mbumba.
"This project is a ground-breaking demonstration of pioneering hydrogen production in Africa. It aims to demonstrate that green hydrogen and ammonia can be produced efficiently and on the basis of renewable energy sources. Namibia boasts huge solar and wind energy potential, a thriving workforce, a favourable business climate, and, most importantly, a vision of becoming a leader in sub-Saharan Africa in sustainable energy," said King Phillipe.
Using solar energy to produce hydrogen on-site, the facility will supply hydrogen to trucks, port equipment, small ships, and railway applications.
Dr. Mbumba and King Phillippe witnessed the first filling of a dual-fuel truck.
The companies behind the multi-billion-dollar project are both family businesses that believe in collaboration to achieve a greener future.
A hydrogen academy aimed at creating expertise has been built on-site.
The Cleanergy team, suppliers, and European and local universities will jointly upskill Namibians on hydrogen and its diverse potential.