Johannes Shipepe

We sat down with Johannes to find out a bit more about this role, which centres around maximising the benefits and opportunities for the people of Namibia.

1. Can you tell us about your role at Hyphen and what you do day to day?

My role at Hyphen involves being responsible for localising investment and implementing a robust procurement strategy that aligns with the broader socio-economic development framework. What this looks like in my day-to-day includes identifying opportunities in the project’s construction and operation phases and understanding what can be can be adapted to maximise the benefits and opportunities for the people of Namibia. This also involves developing a program to build the capacity and capability of local Namibian companies to execute some of the opportunities identified.

2. What was your first ever job?

After graduating, my first job was at the National Planning Commission where I essentially evaluated capital projects from Offices, Ministries and Agencies and recommended funding for the three-year budget cycle. As well as to coordinate the formulation of the Development Budget in time for the tabling of the National budget at Parliament by the Director General and Minister of Finance.

3. What do you enjoy most about your job?

Engaging with and learning about the experiences of different people, industries, and countries and how they have developed strategies to localize large scale investments. The diverse Hyphen and Enertrag team members and support consultants are hugely experienced and have done several projects across the world, which has meant I’ve been able to tap into this deep pool of knowledge and talent. I’ve also had my eyes opened to several Namibian companies doing a lot of interesting things, and I’m looking forward to discovering ways and solutions to help play a part in our world leading project.

4. What advice would you give to someone considering a career in renewable energy?

Renewable energy is not just about engineering. The scope of the sector is so vast that many career opportunities exist in different verticals, from finance, through to planning and environment. Namibia in particular has a promising renewable energy sector that will hold many opportunities in the future. My advice would be to find to find your niche, develop your skills early, and participate in as many discussions as possible.

5. Can you share an interesting fact about yourself?

I appreciate competition and I enjoy a good battle. I am an industrious person.

6. When you’re not at work, what do you like to do?

I like to spend time with my wife, family, and friends. In my spare time I watch movies and play sports or do some sort of physical activity, like go to the gym.

7. What are you most excited about for the future of the renewable industry in Namibia?

Namibia might be a small nation, but it’s a small nation that has the potential to become a global renewable energy player. I’m excited about the role that renewable energy can play in terms of laying the foundation for Namibia’s economic transformation and industrialization.

8. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given during your career?

There are others that have done what you have done before, listen, ask for advice, and use it to grow.