Shell Dials Back Namibia Exploration Spend Amid Global Strategic Shift- ISSUE #64☕

Welcome to Revolox Media — your pulse point for power moves, policy shifts, and the stories shaping Namibia and beyond.

In this issue:

• Shell pulls the brakes on exploration in Namibia, signaling a cautious pivot as the oil giant recalibrates its global strategy. What does this mean for Namibia’s offshore ambitions?

• In the north, NamWater takes action, hosting a procurement workshop in Oshakati aimed at empowering local SMEs and advancing sustainable water sector development.

• And globally, Malaysia and the US seal a historic $150 billion deal amid shifting semiconductor tariffs — a move with ripple effects across global tech and trade dynamics.

From energy and infrastructure to global diplomacy, this edition keeps you in the loop. Let’s dive in.

MARKET CORNER

NSX INDEX Overview

ECONOMIC PULSE

FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATES

Disclaimer: The financial data and market information provided in the tables below, including stock prices, indices, exchange rates, economic indicators, and other metrics, are sourced from user-provided data and are accurate as of August 4, 2025, based on the latest input. This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, investment recommendations, or an offer to buy or sell securities. Market data is subject to change, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Users should verify data independently and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

Shell Dials Back Namibia Exploration Spend Amid Global Strategic Shift

Shell has announced that Namibia is no longer a top priority for its exploration capital, as the energy giant refines its global strategy to focus on areas where it already has assets and a strong track record—such as the Gulf of Mexico, Malaysia, and Oman.

Selective Investment, Continued Monitoring

Speaking on the company’s revised approach, CEO Wael Sawan explained that Shell is adopting a more selective and disciplined investment posture. “Of course you know we have Namibia. There we are looking at what others are doing, continuing to learn and positioning ourselves in case something interesting comes up,” Sawan stated, noting the sector’s dynamism.

Technical Challenges and Write-Downs in Namibia

Shell operates the PEL 39 licence off Namibia’s southern coast, spanning 12,000km². Since a breakthrough at the Graff-1X well in 2022, the company has drilled nine wells, encountering hydrocarbons at Graff, Jonker, and La Rona. However, ongoing technical and geological hurdles have thus far prevented confirmation of commercial-scale production. Shell has already written down roughly US$400 million linked to one of its Namibian discoveries.

The company remains invested, holding a 45% stake in PEL 39, alongside QatarEnergy (45%) and Namcor (10%). Sawan hinted at upcoming activity: “We have some exciting wells coming in the next I’d say six to 12 months which I’m looking forward to seeing what we come out of that, while always recognising of course exploration. We play the long game.”

Focus on Strategic Engagement

Shell continues to engage with Namibian authorities, with a July executive delegation holding talks with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah about the company’s activities and long-term intentions. Yet, the company is clear: new major funding will be highly targeted elsewhere for now, amid a global “reset” of its exploration operations following mixed results in several regions.

The Bottom Line

Shell’s evolving exploration strategy signals a more cautious, disciplined approach, with Namibia’s oil blocks on the watch list—but no longer at the forefront for new investment. Ongoing appraisal drilling may still yield positive surprises, but for now, Shell is opting to consolidate where success is more certain before ramping up activity in new frontiers.

Source: The Namibian

NamWater Hosts Procurement Workshop in Oshakati to Empower Local SMEs and Boost Water Sector Development

The Namibia Water Corporation Ltd (NamWater) convened a crucial Procurement Stakeholder Engagement Workshop in Oshakati, bringing together suppliers, contractors, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), regulators, and government representatives. Held at the Oshakati Town Council Auditorium, the forum aimed to enhance transparency, strengthen collaborations, and drive sustainable growth in Namibia’s water sector by empowering local businesses.

Procurement as a Catalyst for National Progress

NamWater CEO Abraham Nehemia emphasized that procurement is far more than a transactional process—it is a "powerful enabler of service delivery, institutional trust, and national progress." The workshop focused on aligning NamWater’s procurement practices with the Public Procurement Act and national socio-economic goals, particularly SME development, job creation, and infrastructure advancements.

Reinforcing NamWater’s Role and SME Commitment

As the bulk water supplier to municipalities, industries, and rural areas, NamWater highlighted its role in maintaining critical water infrastructure and ensuring reliable service, especially during droughts. Nehemia underscored SMEs as key drivers of innovation and inclusive economic growth, detailing measures such as reserved procurement categories, subcontracting quotas, capacity-building programs, and accelerated payment systems designed to increase SME participation.

Key procurement sectors identified include small civil works (pipelines, reservoirs), mechanical and electrical maintenance, supply of materials and equipment, access road and fencing construction, and non-consultancy services like cleaning and logistics.

Insights and Stakeholder Dialogue

The workshop featured presentations from NamWater officials, including Acting Head of Business Unit North-West, Simeon Kamati, who outlined regional operational needs, and Supply Chain Management Head Puje Katjivena, who detailed the Annual Procurement Plan and bidding processes. Ministry of Finance representative Phineas M. Nsundano addressed government policies supporting SMEs, updates in procurement legislation, and capacity-building initiatives.

In open discussions, suppliers called for better access to tender information, mentorship programs, and financial assistance. NamWater committed to addressing these challenges through proactive partnerships and regular stakeholder engagements.

Catalysing Regional Impact

By holding the workshop in Oshakati, NamWater aims to bridge regional gaps, ensuring northern suppliers are well-positioned for upcoming projects. Nehemia described the initiative as part of an overarching “journey toward a resilient, inclusive water sector,” encouraging SMEs to stay informed via NamWater’s website and social media channels for tender announcements and support programs.

The Bottom Line

NamWater’s Procurement Stakeholder Engagement Workshop marks a significant step toward nurturing SME participation and advancing Namibia’s water infrastructure. Through collaborative policymaking, targeted support, and regional inclusivity, the corporation demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development and equitable economic growth.

Suggested Image: NamWater CEO Abraham Nehemia addressing stakeholders at the Oshakati workshop with engaged participants in the background.

Source : Business express

TECH

Malaysia, US Strike Landmark $150 Billion Deal Amidst Semiconductor Tariff Shift

Malaysia will invest up to $150 billion over the next five years on equipment from US multinationals for its semiconductor, aerospace, and data centre sectors—a cornerstone of a wide-ranging pact with Washington aimed at cutting tariffs and balancing trade. The agreement comes as the US, under new trade measures, has set a 19% tariff rate on Malaysia starting August 8, an improvement from the 25% that was previously threatened.

Balancing Trade Through Strategic Investments

Trade Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz announced that, as part of the deal, state energy firm Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) will purchase $3.4 billion worth of US liquefied natural gas annually, and Malaysia will inject $70 billion into cross-border investments in the US within five years. These moves target the $24.8 billion US goods trade deficit with Malaysia recorded in 2024.

Tariffs and Market Access: Key Concessions

The deal includes Malaysia reducing or abolishing duties on 98.4% of US imports, easing several non-tariff barriers, and scrapping a previously contentious requirement that US social media and cloud providers contribute part of their Malaysian revenues to a state fund. Pharmaceutical products and semiconductors from Malaysia will receive tariff exemptions when exported to the US, with ongoing negotiations to secure further relief for commodities like cocoa, rubber, and palm oil.

Uncertainty Remains for Semiconductors

Despite the tariff deal, Minister Tengku Zafrul cautioned that Malaysian semiconductor exports could still face additional US tariffs based on national security concerns—a risk that urges continued vigilance from the industry.

The Bottom Line

The Malaysia-US trade accord marks a milestone for regional supply chains and bilateral relations, leveraging major investments and mutual concessions to navigate a changing global trade landscape. While the deal delivers tariff reductions and opens new opportunities for high-tech sectors, it also exposes Malaysia’s core industries, especially semiconductors, to evolving US trade and security policies.

Source: The Daily star

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

🧠 Motivational Quote for Visual: