By Patience Makwele

As Namibia looks toward a greener future, young innovators are stepping up to harness the country’s abundant solar potential, using renewable energy to empower communities and create new opportunities for the youth.

Kevin Kevanhu, a solar technician in training at the Windhoek Vocational Training Centre, says his journey into solar energy began with a personal understanding of the challenges faced by many Namibian communities. “My inspiration to pursue a career in solar energy came from witnessing how energy poverty continues to affect many Namibian communities, particularly in rural and northern regions,” he shared. 

Growing up and witnessing how the lack of reliable electricity limited opportunities for development and how schools struggled to function effectively with health facilities operating under constraints and local economic activities remained stagnant, Kevanhu knew the only way to change the narrative was only possible with him pursuing a career in energy. 

He added that access to energy is more than a technical issue; it is deeply connected to social and economic development. “I began to understand that access to energy is not merely a technical issue, but a social and developmental one, it influences education, healthcare and livelihoods. When I learned about renewable energy and the potential of solar power to provide sustainable, decentralized solutions, I saw an opportunity to be part of the change.

He explained that through his work,  he sees solar energy as a tool for youth empowerment. “Solar energy represents one of the most dynamic opportunities for youth empowerment in Namibia. It is not only an environmentally sustainable energy source but also a rapidly growing economic sector with immense potential for job creation, entrepreneurship and innovation,” he explained.

Kevanhu highlighted that young people are gaining hands-on experience in solar installation, maintenance, and management through TVET programs and technical training courses. Beyond technical roles, solar energy opens doors to research, policy development, and community-based initiatives. “In rural areas, small solar enterprises can provide affordable lighting, water pumping and refrigeration services, directly improving livelihoods while helping young entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses. By empowering youth with green skills and supporting local innovation, solar energy is not just powering communities, it is building a generation capable of driving Namibia’s renewable energy transformation,” he said.

In addition to his technical work, Kevanhu actively mentors other young people interested in renewable energy. “I believe true leadership in the energy transition begins with sharing knowledge, creating awareness and inspiring participation. I make a conscious effort to engage with other young people through youth forums, workshops and community based engagements,” he said. He also supports initiatives that promote renewable energy literacy and sustainability awareness, encouraging young Namibians to view renewable energy as a pathway to self-reliance and national development.

For Namibia, Kevanhu believes solar energy is a cornerstone for development, particularly in underserved areas. “Many rural areas remain disconnected from the national grid due to the high cost of grid expansion. Solar systems effectively bridge this gap by providing decentralized energy for homes, schools, clinics and small enterprises. Access to solar power enables education, healthcare delivery, clean water access, and all essential components of rural development,” he said.

Looking ahead, Kevanhu emphasized that he sees solar energy as central to Namibia’s economic and energy sustainability. “Solar energy forms the cornerstone of Namibia’s clean energy future. It aligns with the country’s long-term goals of achieving energy independence, economic diversification and environmental sustainability,” he said. Adding that the solar sector supports national priorities outlined in the NDP6, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, while creating jobs, fostering innovation, and attracting investment.

To further grow Namibia’s solar industry, Kevanhu calls for stronger collaboration between government, private sector, and educational institutions. “The government can play a key role by simplifying licensing procedures, power purchase agreements and approval processes for renewable projects, creating a more investor-friendly environment. Policy incentives such as tax reliefs, green financing schemes and subsidies for renewable startups will further encourage private sector participation,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of investing in technical education, infrastructure development, and local manufacturing of solar components, while raising public awareness to ensure long-term sustainability.