Kokoseb mine raises relocation concerns
Families living near the proposed Kokoseb gold mine in the Erongo Region face possible relocation, with questions over compensation, livestock and the future of their homes emerging as key issues ahead of the project.
An environmental assessment addendum prepared for Mandarin Investments in March 2026 identifies communities in Katora and Katjio as being close to the proposed open-pit mining area and says relocation will be required before mining operations can begin.
The report does not specify how many households will have to move or how much compensation will cost.
The proposed mine is planned on mining licence area ML 274, within exploration licence area EPL 4818. The project’s relocation requirements could also affect residents who remain in the area, particularly if mine infrastructure and fencing restrict access to livestock grazing land.
Earlier relocations
At a meeting in March, two women who had been relocated from the project area to Swakopmund during the exploration phase raised concerns about the permanent loss of their family home and the movement of their livestock.
They also questioned what would happen if the mine proved financially unviable and sought clarity on the project’s timeline.
If permanent relocation becomes necessary, the women said they would prefer to move to the wider Kalkfeld, Omaruru or Karibib areas. They also called for a fully equipped home and assistance to move their livestock safely.
The company said a resettlement plan was being developed and that permanent relocation and compensation would be discussed directly with those affected.
Compensation and livelihoods
The assessment says a separate Resettlement Action Plan and Livelihood Restoration Plan will guide the process. These are intended to ensure that relocation is handled transparently and that affected households’ livelihoods are maintained or improved.
A housing survey was conducted in November 2025 to establish baseline conditions, with further assessments and consultations planned with the !Oe≠Gan Traditional Authority.
The report also highlights the need for further engagement with traditional authorities to determine whether newly awarded customary land rights overlap with the proposed mining footprint.
A blast impact assessment identified a minimum unsafe zone of 519 metres around the proposed pit. Structures, people and other sensitive receptors within that area must be cleared before blasting can begin.
The findings underline the need to resolve relocation and land-access questions before mining operations start.
Project still awaiting approvals
In an update dated 20 October 2026, WIA Gold said the mining licence and environmental clearance applications remained under regulatory review, with approvals anticipated by the end of the year.
The company is targeting early works in the first half of 2027 and first gold production in the fourth quarter of 2028, subject to regulatory approvals and final financing arrangements.
The timetable remains conditional. The March environmental assessment addendum does not establish that the required approvals have been granted.
