• Namibian energy delegation visits Algeria from 22-28 February 2026 to deepen cooperation in hydrocarbons, energy and mining.

• Discussions focus on experience sharing in petroleum, gas and capacity building, including technical training and site visits.

• Both sides aim to elevate cooperation into strategic partnerships with concrete project frameworks and sustainable development outcomes.

A Namibian delegation led by the Special Advisor to the President and Head of the Upstream Petroleum Unit, Kornelia Shilunga, began a working visit to Algeria on 22 February 2026 to strengthen bilateral energy cooperation, according to an official statement from Algeria’s Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Mines. The mission, which runs through 28 February, is part of ongoing efforts to build institutional links and benefit from Algeria’s extensive experience in the oil, gas and broader energy sectors.

The visit brings Namibian representatives together with Algeria’s energy leadership, including technical officials and industry stakeholders. Meetings include sessions with the Minister of State for Hydrocarbons and Mines and guided visits to key energy installations, giving the Namibian delegation first‑hand exposure to Algeria’s value chain in exploration, production, refining and gas infrastructure.

According to the Algerian ministry, part of the programme includes a tour of facilities that encompass the full spectrum of hydrocarbons operations, as well as engagement with the Algerian Petroleum Institute, where Namibian officials will have the opportunity to review training, capacity‑building programmes and technical management approaches.

Officials from both countries described the visit as reflective of “a shared will to elevate cooperation to a strategic partnership founded on concrete projects that reinforce African integration and support sustainable development.” The visit follows previous engagements between Namibia and Algeria in the energy space. In September 2025, then Vice‑President Lucia Witbooi met Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Mining during the Intra‑African Trade Fair (IATF) in Algiers, discussing the potential for formalised MoUs and bilateral workshops to foster cooperation in energy and related sectors.

Namibia’s emerging petroleum sector and Algeria’s role as one of Africa’s largest energy producers provide a complementary basis for cooperation. Algiers has experience in managing large‑scale hydrocarbon operations and energy infrastructure, which Namibian officials are seeking to adapt and apply as Namibia advances its own natural resource development strategies.

By Cynthia Ebot Takang