Erasmus Shalihaaxwe
The HyIron Oshivela project has contributed over N$90 million to Namibia’s economy in just one year, according to the minister in the presidency, Christine //Hoebes.
Speaking at the project’s reveal event this week, the minister highlighted how the project is benefiting local communities, with more than 17% of its value staying within Namibia.
Located 100 kilometres east of Swakopmund, the HyIron Oshivela project is set to be the first industrial production of iron with net-zero emissions, using advanced HyIron technology.
‘’Today marks a pivotal moment as HyIron reveals and sets in place a 12MW electrolyzer—potentially the largest modern electrolyzer in Southern Africa. This exceptional piece of equipment will lay the cornerstone for the first phase of production, aiming to yield 15,000 tons of direct reduced iron annually,” she said.
//Hoebes explained that the project is already creating jobs and helping the local economy grow.
So far, HyIron has employed around 50 people, worked with over 60 Namibian companies, and hired more than 400 workers during the construction phase.
“By 2030, HyIron envisions a workforce exceeding 1,500 individuals, as they operate a facility with a capacity of 2 million tons per annum right here in the mighty Erongo region, sourcing iron ore from Opuwo and the Northern Cape, all while producing 100,000 tons of green hydrogen utilizing Namibia’s abundant solar and water resources—what an extraordinary prospect,” she said.
According to her, the project has the potential to enhance various sectors such as construction, energy, technology, logistics, and training programs, all of which will aid Namibians in acquiring valuable skills.
‘’Mobilising an estimated 200 million Euros for phase two and a staggering 2.5 billion Euros in investment for phase three will reinvest resources into our communities. Families will see household incomes rise, children will gain access to education and training, and whole towns will experience the uplift that accompanies a booming, modernising economy dedicated to sustainability,’’ she stated.
HyIron Oshivela co-founder, Johannes Michels said they have already signed an agreement with a German company called Bentler, which manufactures car parts across the world, and they want HyIron Oshivela to supply them with iron.
