Certification, Compliance and Infrastructure Key for Namibian Suppliers Seeking Oil and Gas Contracts
Namibian businesses seeking to participate in the country’s emerging oil and gas industry must address gaps in certification, infrastructure and governance if they are to secure contracts as the sector moves closer to large-scale development.
The message emerged during the Upstream Oil and Gas Local Suppliers Workshop hosted by Petrofund, where international service providers outlined the key requirements, local companies must meet to compete for opportunities in the rapidly evolving industry.
Halliburton Procurement Specialist Jaumbuaije Zauana said many local suppliers continue to struggle during the qualification process despite growing interest in the sector.
“There are still challenges in the local market, particularly around technical capability, certification and infrastructure. For example, API certification and access to specialised equipment remain critical gaps.
We receive interest from vendors who indicate they can provide certain services, but when assessments are conducted, we often find they lack the required certifications or their facilities are not adequately equipped,” she said.
Zauana noted that suppliers providing critical services face particularly stringent evaluation processes due to the high operational risks associated with oil and gas activities.
“For critical services, the assessment process is rigorous. We conduct site visits, review certifications and evaluate the training and competency of employees,” she said.
She warned that suppliers who fail to meet industry standards risk causing costly operational disruptions.
“If something goes wrong, it can result in unproductive time, which is extremely expensive in this industry.
Suppliers must ensure all requirements are met to protect themselves, operators and the broader industry,” she said.
According to Zauana, procurement decisions are based on more than price competitiveness, with operators placing significant emphasis on service quality, technical expertise and reliability.
“We ensure fairness by evaluating multiple suppliers. Price is important, but we also consider service delivery, technical capability, reliability and reputation. The process is designed to promote transparency, fair opportunity, high standards and long-term partnerships,” she said.
Baker Hughes Country Director Victor Joseph said compliance, safety and ethical conduct are non-negotiable requirements for companies seeking to enter the sector.
“Health, safety, environment, quality and safety come first. We want every worker to return home safely at the end of the day. If you want to be a supplier or partner in this industry, safety and quality must be your top priorities,” he said.
Joseph stressed that businesses must also understand industry procedures and adhere to strict anti-corruption standards.
“Do you understand the process, what is required, and the code of conduct? Participation in this industry requires full compliance. We do not tolerate bribery or corruption. If you see something, say something. Accountability applies to everyone involved,” he said.
He added that supplier performance is continuously monitored through regular reviews and assessments as part of long-term contracting relationships.
RMB Namibia Sector Head for Oil and Gas, Energy and Resources Angelique Peake said Namibia is entering a critical phase of industry development that demands collaboration and preparedness across the value chain.
“We are moving from exploration to execution and now towards ecosystem building. This is what an industry looks like when it begins to organise itself, and everyone has a role to play,” she said.
Peake emphasised that local businesses must take ownership of their readiness if they hope to benefit from the opportunities emerging in the sector.
“This is a global industry governed by global standards. Local companies can participate, but they must be prepared to meet those standards. It requires research, planning, investment and the right certifications. The opportunity exists, but it will not simply be handed to us,” she said.
She also encouraged businesses to engage early with financial institutions to secure the funding needed for expansion and capability development.
As Namibia’s oil and gas industry advances towards project execution, industry leaders say meaningful local participation will depend on whether businesses can strengthen compliance, invest in technical capabilities and align themselves with the global standards that govern the sector.
