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Shakwa Nyambe becomes first-ever African to lead Association of International Energy Negotiators
Ahead of this week’s AIEN International Energy Summit in Türkiye, Namibian lawyer Shakwa Nyambe was confirmed as the new President of the global organisation of energy industry professionals
“I am profoundly honoured to serve as President of the Association of International Energy Negotiators,” says Nyambe, after his appointment was confirmed during the AIEN Board Meeting in Istanbul on Monday. “This historic moment reflects the strength of our global membership, and the trust placed in me to lead. I am committed to advancing AIEN’s mission, promoting collaboration and driving impactful and practical solutions for the energy sector’s future.”
Nyambe, who worked as a legal counsel at the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia before establishing his specialist energy and natural resources, corporate law and disputes firm SNC Inc in Windhoek in 2019, is the first African to lead Association of International Energy Negotiators (AIEN) since its inception in 1981.
Following Nyambe’s confirmation on Monday, AIEN is currently holding its ninth annual International Energy Summit at the Shangri-La Hotel in Istanbul, Türkiye.
Titled, “Energy Crossroads: Meeting Society’s Energy Needs in a Changing World”, the Summit provides a forum for meaningful dialogue and networking for energy professionals. Globally recognised experts and high-profile speakers at the leading edge of solving the international energy industry’s challenges are sharing insights and practical solutions, as well as meaningful dialogue and networking.
Founded as a not-for-profit within the upstream oil sector in Houston, Texas, and originally named the Association of International Petroleum Negotiators, AIEN now represents an array of global energy professionals in more than 110 countries.
As President, Nyambe will be responsible for steering AIEN’s strategic direction, strengthening partnerships across the energy industry, and enhancing the organisation’s global presence. He will also serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chief Executive Office, and official spokesperson of the organisation.
Nyambe’s term as President of AIEN will run until June 2026.
He has previously held key leadership positions within AIEN, including Vice President of Communications, and Regional Chapter Director for Africa, which under his leadership has seen significant growth as AIEN’s global footprint has expanded.
AIEN enhances the effectiveness and professionalism of the international energy community by offering educational programs, workshops and conferences on commercial and legal topics. It is renowned for producing industry-standard models that are clearly written, transparent, balanced, and widely accepted throughout the energy industry. AIEN also offers research papers, networking forums in global energy regions and distributes timely and useful information through its website.