How did a small, economically vulnerable country become a trailblazer in sustainable industry? Clean economy builder James Mnyupe explores how Namibia is teaming up with partners from around the world to turn sun, wind and water into green hydrogen — a key ingredient in fueling everything from clean steel to eco-friendly transportation. Discover how this bold blueprint is creating jobs, cutting carbon and sparking a wave of African pride and possibility.

A small nation’s surprising solution to unemployment

A small Southern African nation, once grappling with 37 percent unemployment and deep inequality, is now pioneering green industry with global partners. Harnessing some of the world’s strongest sun and wind, Namibia built Africa’s first direct reduced iron plant powered by renewables, creating hundreds of jobs and attracting major investments. Their green hydrogen fuels clean steel, eco-friendly transport, and even new shipping fleets, offering a bold model for sustainable prosperity and African pride.

Namibia Turns Sun and Struggle Into a Green Industrial Powerhouse

renewable energy

natural resources

Africa

Countdown

collaboration

sustainability

climate change

industrial design

TED Stage Talk

James Mnyupe: A small nation’s surprising solution to unemployment