NWR Reviews Contract with Enercon Amid Fuel Scandal Investigation

Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) is considering terminating its contract with Enercon, a fuel supplier implicated in a major corruption scandal that has highlighted broader issues of institutional accountability and transparency in Namibia's energy sector.

Contract Review and Fuel Supply Issues

The parastatal's management confirmed that Enercon's contract, dating back to 2007, is under legal review following allegations of supplying smuggled Angolan fuel known as 'ngungula.' This development comes amid Namibia's ongoing efforts to regulate its energy market and ensure sustainable practices.

Investigation Findings and Impact

The controversy centers on claims that contaminated fuel damaged NWR's generators and vehicles, particularly affecting resorts at Terrace Bay and Henties Bay along the Skeleton Coast. Sources indicate that while allegations were investigated, the fuel was never tested for contamination.

"There isn't fuel at any of our lodges that have fuel stations," former NWR spokesperson Nelson Ashipala confirmed earlier this year.

Broader Corruption Context

The case has drawn parallels to other instances of institutional misconduct and transparency issues across Africa. Enercon is currently involved in a larger corruption probe related to the Namcor fuel scandal, allegedly owing approximately N$114 million as part of a broader N$380 million fraud investigation.

Key Developments:

• NWR has initiated an internal audit review of alternative fuel supply arrangements
• Police have confiscated over 776,000 liters of smuggled fuel valued at N$17 million
• Enercon director Peter Elindi maintains they source fuel exclusively from TotalEnergies