Namibia Appoints Modestus Amutse as New Mines and Energy Minister

Namibia has entered a new phase in its economic governance with the appointment of Modestus Amutse as the country’s Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, effective 2 December 2025. His promotion marks a significant leadership transition as the government sharpens its focus on industrialisation, mining sector expansion and the development of a secure, sustainable energy future. The move follows the October dismissal of former minister Natangwe Ithete and reflects a deliberate repositioning of the ministry at a time when Namibia is pursuing broad based economic transformation.

President Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah confirmed Amutse’s appointment, citing his extensive public sector experience and capacity for strategic leadership. Prior to taking up this ministerial role, Amutse served as Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology, where he developed a strong record in national policy implementation and digital sector oversight. His background also includes service as a Member of Parliament and Chairperson of a National Assembly Standing Committee, along with considerable leadership experience at regional government level. These roles have equipped him with a broad understanding of governance structures and national development priorities.

The appointment also brings closure to a short interim period in which Frans Kapofi, Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, served in an acting capacity. Amutse now assumes responsibility for a ministry central to Namibia’s ambitions in mining, industrial development and energy security. The government has tasked him with advancing sustainable development across all 14 regions, ensuring that growth in these strategic sectors translates into shared prosperity. His mandate includes strengthening regulatory frameworks, supporting investment attraction and guiding Namibia’s integration into global value chains, particularly in critical minerals and emerging energy technologies.

This leadership shift is poised to influence the trajectory of Namibia’s mining and energy landscape. Amutse’s stewardship could accelerate investment in key sectors, enhance policy stability and reinforce the country’s positioning as a competitive jurisdiction for mining and industrial development. For Africa more broadly, Namibia’s renewed emphasis on strong governance in resource and energy management may serve as a model for leveraging natural endowments to support inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.

Image Credit: Namibian Presidency

Mini Glossary

• Industrialisation: The process of developing manufacturing and related industries to diversify an economy.
• Critical minerals: Resources essential to modern technologies such as batteries, renewable energy systems and advanced manufacturing.
• Regulatory framework: The set of laws and policies governing how industries operate.
• Value chain: The full range of activities required to bring a product from conception to market.
• Acting capacity: Temporarily fulfilling the duties of a role until a permanent appointment is made.

Editor: Vural Burç ÇAKIR