Namibian Energy Sector Makes Historic Leap Toward Local Ownership as Nasan Energies Acquires 53 Fuel Stations
Namibia’s energy industry is experiencing a transformative shift toward local ownership as Nasan Energies, one of the country’s first privately owned oil marketing companies, moves forward with the acquisition of 53 Engen and Shell-branded fuel service stations from Vivo Energy Namibia. The landmark transaction, currently awaiting approval from the Namibian Competition Commission, represents a significant milestone in reducing foreign dominance in the sector.
The acquisition originates from regulatory requirements imposed following Vivo Energy’s purchase of Engen Limited from Petronas in May 2024. As part of the approval conditions, the Namibian Competition Commission mandated that Vivo Energy divest several service stations to maintain competitive market balance. Following a thorough evaluation process that assessed technical expertise and financial capabilities, Nasan Energies was selected as the preferred bidder.
Vivo Energy Namibia Managing Director Jaco Van Rensburg expressed satisfaction with the arrangement, stating that it meets regulatory requirements while providing certainty for dealers and partners. “We look forward to working closely with Nasan Energies to ensure a smooth transition as we work to complete the transaction,” Van Rensburg commented.
The transaction will position Nasan Energies as a major force in Namibia’s retail fuel market, marking a significant achievement for local ownership in the energy sector. Co-founder Miguel Hamutenya highlighted the company’s alignment with government calls for local ownership of Namibian resources and job creation, establishing Nasan Energies as one of the first locally owned major oil marketing companies in the nation.
The company’s name reflects its deep Namibian roots, with “Nasan” combining “Na” for Namibia and “San” from the Khoisan people, recognized as among the world’s oldest cultures. Co-founder Shiraz Tobias explained how the Khoisan’s legendary resilience and adaptability in challenging environments embody the company’s philosophy of being dynamic, adaptable, and resilient in the competitive energy marketplace.
The founding team brings substantial expertise in downstream oil, gas, fuel retail, and distribution, with senior advisor Jean-Blaise Ollomo contributing three decades of downstream petroleum experience. Co-founder Sean Tobias emphasized the importance of Namibian support for locally owned enterprises to ensure continued local employment and leadership in the energy sector.
The acquisition represents more than a commercial transaction, symbolizing Namibia’s growing capacity to control its energy infrastructure while creating opportunities for local professionals and maintaining competitive market standards.
Source: namibiaoilandgas.com
