By: Loise Shiimi
The president of the Emerging Mining Association of Namibia (EMAN), Thekla Mutero, has urged the Ministry of Industries, Mines, and Energy to improve access to processing facilities, crushers, and the establishment of local geological and certification services.
These initiatives are intended to bolster value addition efforts, ensuring that emerging miners have the resources necessary for success.
Mutero made these suggestions during a consultative meeting with the Ministry last week, aimed at strengthening Namibia’s mineral value chain and gathering insights to foster collaboration on the implementation of natural resource beneficiation strategies.
Mutero reiterated the association’s commitment to supporting Namibia’s mining sector.
“Namibia’s emerging miners are eager to contribute significantly to our country’s mining industry. Our association is dedicated to ensuring that local miners can legally own, develop, and benefit from their resources. We welcome this engagement with the Ministry as an opportunity to translate potential into tangible impact,” he stated.
He also expressed concerns about restrictions on the use of modern mining equipment in areas designated as mining claims, noting that such limitations hinder productivity for small-scale miners.
The Association emphasised the need for well-regulated, modern mining techniques that adhere to environmental management and safety standards. They argued that these techniques would help small-scale miners mitigate occupational hazards and promote sustainable, compliant mining practices.
Moreover, Industries, Mines, and Energy Minister, Modestus Amutse, underscored the importance of early and continuous engagement with key stakeholders in the mining sector. He stressed that the effective and sustainable implementation of value addition to Namibia’s natural resources relies on the practical input of those directly involved in the industry.
“The growth of Namibia’s mining sector cannot be achieved solely by the Government. It requires meaningful collaboration with on-the-ground stakeholders, whose practical experiences are vital in shaping effective and responsive policies,” Amutse stated.
He also expressed gratitude to EMAN for their thorough submission outlining the challenges faced by emerging and small-scale miners in Namibia, while proposing strategies to enhance local participation in the mining value chain.
