Billions for Namibia’s mines
By Wonder Guchu
(Edited by A. Truter)
WINDHOEK
Namibia’s mining sector has significantly exceeded its investment targets but remains behind expectations when it comes to job creation. Nine months after the launch of the Namibia Public-Private Forum (NamPPF), a joint economic initiative between government and the private sector, the Chamber of Mines says investments of around US$1.865 billion have been recorded. At the same time, 3 054 jobs were created.
That means investment was more than three-and-a-half times higher than the US$525 million target set for this stage. Employment, however, narrowly missed its target of 3 375 new jobs.
The figures are measured against commitments made at the inaugural NamPPF in Windhoek in October 2025. At the time, the mining industry presented a four-year project pipeline expected to attract around US$2.865 billion in investment and create more than 18 000 direct jobs. After nine months, about two-thirds of the projected investment has already been realised, while employment stands at only about 17% of the longer-term target.
According to the Chamber, the gap is partly explained by the fact that several major projects are still in early development stages. Significant capital is already being committed, while larger employment gains are generally expected only during construction and operations.
Among the most advanced developments is the Twin Hills gold project, where construction is already under way. Bannerman Energy’s Etango uranium project is in an early implementation phase, while Deep Yellow’s Tumas project has secured a mining licence and is continuing towards financing and a final investment decision. Infrastructure projects such as a desalination plant near Husab are also expected to support further growth in the sector.
Other projects remain at earlier stages. These include Koryx Copper’s Haib project, Andrada Mining’s developments at Uis and Lithium Ridge, and Wia Gold’s Kokoseb discovery.
At the same time, the Chamber has warned of obstacles that could delay investment, including lengthy permitting processes, regulatory uncertainty and unclear ownership and shareholding rules. Water, electricity and transport capacity are also becoming increasingly important as several large projects advance at the same time.
The Chamber nevertheless remains confident. President George Botshiwe said the industry could ultimately exceed its original commitments in the coming years.
