Sunday , February 16 2025

Namibia Digs In for Mining Overhaul

….as it cracks down on mining wildcatters

Namibia is digging in for a showdown with mining companies after revealing that less than half of its approved projects are actually in operation. The southern African nation, renowned for its uranium, lithium, and rare earth deposits, is determined to wring more value from its mineral wealth while ensuring it benefits its people.

Mines and Energy Minister Tom Alweendo pulled no punches at a Windhoek conference this week when he disclosed that only 68 of the 162 licenses granted were currently active. “We have become more stringent when considering mining license applications,” Alweendo warned. “Henceforth, the terms and conditions of all new mining licenses shall be captured in a Mining Agreement that shall be negotiated between the Ministry and the holder of the license.”

The minister laid bare the problem: many companies awarded licenses lacked the financial muscle and technical know-how to deliver. “Many of the licenses have been awarded to applicants lacking the necessary capabilities to fulfil their exploration commitments,” he said. The government now demands aspiring miners meet stringent work program requirements and prove they have deep pockets before being granted permits.

Namibia, one of the world’s most unequal nations, is desperate to transform its mineral riches into a lifeline for its citizens. But it’s a race against time. The country is awash with interest from global mining giants, with over 600 new exploration license applications flooding in since December, and another 400 already submitted this year.

With its vast untapped mineral potential, Namibia stands at a crossroads. Will it become a model of sustainable mining, where wealth is shared equitably? Or will it remain a land of missed opportunities, where its resources are plundered without benefiting its people? The government’s tough new stance is a clear signal of its intent to steer the country towards the former.

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