Namibia Charts New Offshore Safety Era with Bold, Africa-Inspired Regulatory Blueprint

By Sokhu Sibiya

At the inaugural Erongo Offshore Safety Conference, Namibia took a decisive step toward reshaping its offshore oil and gas governance—anchored in international best practices and infused with a uniquely African perspective. Delegates advanced a bold resolution to establish an independent offshore safety regulator that draws on Brazil’s proven tripartite model, aligns with the International Regulators’ Forum (IRF), and integrates global safety standards. But this isn’t just policy on paper. It’s a call to action for governments, investors, innovators, and emerging professionals across Africa to mobilize, modernize, and lead. 

For an insider’s perspective from the conference, Africa.com spoke with Knowledge Ndunge Ipinge, Strategist of the Erongo Offshore Safety Conference.

Q: What is the overarching vision behind the Erongo Offshore Safety Conference, and how is it shaping the future of offshore safety in Namibia and the rest of Africa?

A:  The Erongo Offshore Safety Conference was created as a catalyst for transformative change in Namibia’s offshore industry, by uniting stakeholders across sectors, we are enabling knowledge-sharing, legislative alignment, and the adoption of internationally recognized safety standards tailored for Namibia’s offshore environment. 

This joint approach signals a shift from fragmented initiatives to cohesive, sustainable safety planning. One of the most pressing challenges is the outdated legislative framework and the absence of an independent offshore safety regulator. This gap not only hinders compliance but also weakens enforcement and post-incident accountability.

To address this effectively, we must modernize existing laws to explicitly integrate offshore safety and mandate independent audits and risk assessments, aligned with global best practices such as the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (IOGP) guidelines. 

Digital reporting systems should also be implemented to enable real-time incident tracking and promote transparency. 

Q: How are companies balancing safety compliance with operational efficiency and profitability in Namibia’s offshore sector?

A: Namibia’s offshore industry is still emerging, and as such, we rely heavily on international best practices to guide our approach. 

Safety audits, when implemented proactively, go beyond mere compliance, they help identify latent hazards early, reducing the likelihood of costly disruptions and reputational risk. 

Forward-looking companies recognize that investing in safety is not a trade-off against profitability, but rather an enabler of long-term value creation.

Q: What innovations in offshore safety are most likely to reduce downtime and improve investment outcomes over the next 3–5 years?

A: Emerging technologies such as IoT, AI, and real-time monitoring systems are transforming offshore safety. 

These innovations allow for continuous risk surveillance, from gas leak detection and fatigue monitoring to predictive analytics that flag equipment failures before they occur. 

Companies are increasingly investing in wearable sensors, digital twins, smart control rooms, and robust data storage policies. For instance, Chevron’s deployment of wearable tech in the Gulf of Mexico cut injury rates by 35%. 

Locally, we’re working with our technical advisor DNV to develop a research and development initiative focused on safeguarding life, property, and the environment.

Q: Youth participation: What skills and qualifications are most in demand right now for someone starting out in offshore safety or operations? Or how can a young professional stand out in this competitive and highly technical industry?

A: For young professionals eyeing a career in offshore safety, a multidisciplinary skillset is key. 

Employers are increasingly seeking candidates with qualifications in engineering, environmental science, occupational health and safety, and maritime studies, paired with digital literacy and a willingness to work in remote, high-pressure environments. 

What sets individuals apart is a demonstrated understanding of global safety standards and a proactive mindset. 

Soft skills like resilience, cross-cultural communication, and ethical decision-making also go a long way. 

As well as investing in continuous learning and certification will help youth navigate this high-stakes, high-reward space.