Hyphen signs Memorandum of Understanding for local skills development and capacity building

Hyphen Hydrogen Energy (Hyphen) has taken another significant step in collaborating with the Government of Namibia, represented by the Hardap Regional Council.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony took place on February 25th and highlights the company’s commitment to local skills development and capacity building.

The importance of the signing of this MoU was emphasised by the attendance of the Nama Traditional Leaders Association (NTLA), represented by the Vice-Chairperson, Gaob David Hanse, as well as Penda Ithindi, Executive Director of the Ministry of Mines and Energy, who delivered remarks on behalf of Hon. Tom Alweendo, Minister of Mines and Energy.

The Hardap Regional Council is crucial in driving economic growth and expanding education and training opportunities for the local workforce. Hyphen’s Green Hydrogen project requires a skilled workforce to make this project in the South of Namibia a reality. Through this MoU, Hyphen proudly supports the Regional Council’s efforts.

The existing skills gaps across Namibia in the GH2 sector must be tackled urgently to ensure Namibians’ employability in this project. That is why Hyphen, and the Namibian Government are partnering to upskill Namibians. The upskilling of Namibians will specifically focus on the youth by developing and offering specialized training and capacity-building initiatives. Initially, the focus is on Hardap, with further capacity building and skill development being extended to the ǁKaras region in the near future.

Toni Beukes, head of environment, social and governance at Hyphen, said: “This MoU lays the foundation for our collaboration, with a strong emphasis on technical training at the TVET level. Our goal is to ensure that local talent is well-equipped to seize the opportunities emerging from implementing the Hyphen project.”

A working group will be established to explore innovative areas of cooperation and develop strategic initiatives to advance skills development and capacity building in Hardap. By leveraging collective expertise and resources, impactful solutions can be created that directly address local challenges and support the development of a skilled workforce. This will, in turn, drive sustainable growth and employment in the region.

The Hon. Solomon April, Governor of Hardap Governor, stated during his remarks: “The historic event of signing an MoU between Hardap Regional Council and Hyphen is a milestone. It marks the beginning of preparing the otherwise demoralised youth of the region to receive education in the form of skills development to allow them to confidently participate in the new fledging economies in the south. This opportunity through the signing of the MoU is long overdue as it inspires the youth to start to dream and anticipate a future for themselves and for the economic prosperity of the Region and the country.”

Hyphen is hoping to conclude a similar MoU with the ǁKaras Regional Council, which will encourage greater local inclusion.