Namibia Pioneers Africa’s First Net-Zero Village with Green Hydrogen-Fueled Desert Farming

(3 Minutes Read)

In the arid landscapes of Namibia, researchers are pioneering a groundbreaking initiative that uses green hydrogen-derived fertiliser to cultivate vegetables in the desert, positioning the country to host Africa’s first Net Zero village.

The Daures Green Hydrogen Village, located in the Erongo region, is central to Namibia’s vision of becoming a leader in green hydrogen production while addressing pressing local challenges, such as reliance on imported fertiliser and growing food insecurity in a water-scarce environment.

Currently in its pilot phase, the project harnesses renewable energy to produce hydrogen and green ammonia, which are then used to make fertiliser for crops like tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and leafy greens. These crops are grown hydroponically—absorbing nutrients through mineral-enriched water rather than soil—supported by advanced desalination and water recycling technologies to optimise water efficiency.

The facility is powered by a 0.75-megawatt solar plant and two wind turbines. These drive an electrolyser that splits borehole water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen is combined with nitrogen from the air to produce ammonia, a process traditionally reliant on fossil fuels but here achieved through clean energy.

“The core idea is to showcase the link between green hydrogen and agriculture,” explained Jerome Namaseb, CEO of the Daures Green Hydrogen Village. “Globally, around 80% of ammonia is used for fertiliser, so this project demonstrates a circular economy by producing both hydrogen and ammonia on-site.”

The greenhouse setup is both automated and tailored for desert conditions. Known as a “butterfly greenhouse” for its wing-like ventilating roof, it maintains optimal air circulation and temperature. Jason Angula, the project’s agricultural manager, said that their greenhouse system is highly productive: “One cucumber plant can yield up to 18 fruits at once, exceeding conventional farming averages.”

Water efficiency is further enhanced through a unique “spaghetti irrigation” system that recycles excess fertiliser-laced water, helping preserve scarce resources.

By 2026, the project aims to produce 100 tonnes of green ammonia and 500 tonnes of food annually, potentially supporting over 1,000 local jobs and improving food security.

Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Commissioner James Mnyupe highlighted the strategic focus on meeting domestic demand first. “This approach allows us to reduce import dependence and gradually understand the global fertiliser market, all while enhancing local food production.”

While other African nations like Egypt, Morocco, and Uganda are also investing in green hydrogen, their efforts are largely geared toward export. In contrast, the Daures project integrates energy innovation directly with community food systems, making it a unique model.

However, not everyone is convinced of its long-term sustainability. Environmental analyst Hans-Christian Mahnke cautioned that Namibia may struggle to compete internationally, especially against producers closer to Europe. “It’s commendable that Namibia is stepping into this space, but without competitive pricing, the project risks becoming a white elephant.”

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Yuri Shimweefeleni, an expert in hydrogen and ammonia infrastructure, remains optimistic. He points to Namibia’s abundant renewable energy resources, political stability, and available land as advantages. “Rather than simply exporting ammonia, Namibia should focus on value-added sectors like green fertiliser, synthetic fuels, and green steel to create jobs and boost the local economy.”

Shimweefeleni also acknowledged potential environmental impacts, such as land-use conflicts and water stress, but said these could be addressed through careful site planning and environmental safeguards. As the Daures Green Hydrogen Village evolves, it offers a bold vision of sustainable agriculture in one of the world’s driest regions—and a potential blueprint for other nations on the frontlines of climate and food security challenges.