from ALFRED SHILONGO in Windhoek, Namibia
Namibia Bureau
WINDHOEK, (CAJ News) – PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has rejected fresh allegations her family has improper business interest in Namibia’s oil and gas industry.
Dr Panduleni Itula, president of the main opposition Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), made the allegations on Tuesday during a press briefing at the party’s offices in the capital Windhoek.
He described this as a “capture”, alleging the family was involved in every sector of the value chain.
Among other allegations, Itula alleged the president’s husband Lt. Gen. (Retired), Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah, serves as patron of the Namibia Youth Energy Forum (NYEF).
He is reported to be a patron of a forum that controls Namibia’s largest petroleum joint venture with Vitol and acquires the country’s largest independent fuel retail network.
In addition, son Tate Nande, is listed as executive director of Tradeport Namibia, a leading logistics and supply chain company specialises in the bulk distribution of minerals, fuel and agricultural products across Southern Africa.
Nandi-Ndaitwah, responding through her office, denied the family’s involvement.
“The Presidency states unequivocally that the President and her children hold no ownership, beneficial interest, or stake in the oil and gas industry.” Read the response.
“In light of the seriousness of the allegations made, the Presidency respectfully calls upon Dr Panduleni Itula to provide credible and verifiable evidence, supported by a clear documentary paper trail, to substantiate the claims advanced.”
The Presidency said it remained committed to transparency, accountability and responsible public discourse in matters of national importance.
Itula came second behind Nandi-Ndaitwah in the 2024 elections that saw the latter emerge as the Southern African country’s first female head of state.
Upon assuming office in March 2025, the president took a decision to bring the oil and gas sector under the direct oversight of the Presidency, from the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
Analysts and the opposition argue this undermines democratic checks and balances, compromises regulatory independence and creates political and legislative instability.
In February this year, Nandi-Ndaitwah came under criticism after his aides allegedly abused and expelled Investigative journalist, Jemima Beukes, from the State House after she asked a question about the alleged involvement of the president’s family in the oil and gas sector.
Namibia’s oil and gas sector is poised for exponential growth, driven by major offshore discoveries.
Massive foreign investment is shifting Namibia into a premier African energy frontier. Commercial production is projected for between 2029 and 2030.
– CAJ News