!Nawases-Taeyele lauds Arandis for progressive growth

Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development , Evelyn ! Nawases - Taeyele , has praised the Arandis Town Council for its impressive progress towards growth and innovation . Speaking at the launch of the Arandis Town Council ' s 2024 - 2029 Strategic Plan in Swakopmund on Friday , ! Nawases - Taeyele commended the council for achieving 80 . 8 per cent of the objectives outlined in its 2019 - 2024 Strategic Plan , despite facing challenges . ' The current strategic plan launch is more than a formality ; it embodies a spirit of resilience and adaptability essential for navigating the complexities of our dynamic economic landscape ,' she said . The deputy minister also commended the town ' s efforts to embrace change , particularly highlighting its potential in the green hydrogen sector . ' Namibia is embracing change , engaging actively in international business , and projects like green hydrogen reflect the country ' s progress . The green hydrogen initiative , deeply valued by our late President Dr Hage Gei ngob , and the envisaged Cleanergy Solutions Namibia ' s hydrogen production and solar energy plant to be hosted in the town , is a testament to Namibia ' s strategic vision ,' ! Nawases - Taeyele said . The project , a 1 - Gigawatt plant , will not only create local and regional employment but also position Namibia as a global hydrogen hub , significantly contributing to the country ' s national GDP , the deputy minister added . ' Green hydrogen is no longer a distant dream ; it is a reality that demands action to address climate change and secure a sustainable future ,' she remarked . The town ' s mayor , Risto Kapenda , stated that the green hydrogen sector is expected to create over 250 000 jobs nationally by 2040 . ' These pillars not only signify our steadfast commitment to fostering an investor - friendly environment but also underscore our unyielding resolve to facilitate sustainable development , job creation , and stimulate both the local and national economy , thereby uplifting the livelihoods of o ur cherished community ,' Kapenda said . Arandis Chief Executive Officer , Stanley Norris , described the launched strategic plan as a blueprint for the town ' s sustainable growth . ' Our vision is to leverage our land as a critical factor of production ,' he said , noting that the plan aligns with the fifth National Development Plan and focuses on economic advancement through industrial activity . Norris added that by optimising land use , Arandis aims to attract investment , create jobs and generate revenue , emphasising that the town has the potential to be a beacon of economic growth . Source: The Namibia News Agency