Record mining expo sells out
The 2026 Namibia Mining Expo and Conference will open with a record 222 exhibitors, the highest number in the event's history, highlighting continued confidence in Namibia's mining sector as government and industry seek to turn investment commitments into new projects, jobs and economic growth.
The event, which runs from 4 to 6 August at the Windhoek Showgrounds, has also sold out all available exhibition space for the first time since the Expo began.
According to the Chamber of Mines of Namibia, this year's Expo will feature 222 exhibitors, a 14% increase on last year, occupying 397 exhibition spaces, up 21% from 2025.
Indoor exhibition space has expanded by 20%, while outdoor participation has increased by 30%. The Expo will also host 18 exhibitors from SADC countries, six international exhibitors and 46 first-time exhibitors, reflecting growing regional and international interest in Namibia's mining industry.
Confidence despite global pressures
In a message ahead of the event, Chamber of Mines chief executive officer Fabian Shaanika said the record participation reflects sustained confidence in Namibia's mining industry despite an increasingly challenging global operating environment.
He said this year's conference, held under the theme From Dialogue to Delivery: Assessing Progress in Creating Mining-led Economic Growth and Employment since Namibia's Public-Private Forum (NamPPF), comes at a pivotal time as government and industry assess whether commitments made through the Namibia Public-Private Forum have translated into mining projects, investment and jobs.
"At the same time, unlocking the next phase of mining-led growth will require sustained collaboration between government, industry and all stakeholders," Shaanika said.
He said the conference programme had been designed to review progress made over the past year while identifying the practical steps needed to accelerate mining investment and project development.
"The programme has been carefully curated to facilitate meaningful dialogue on the issues shaping the future of our industry, including investment, project development, infrastructure, financing, sustainability and partnerships," he said.
Focus on growth and safety
Over the three-day conference, delegates will discuss how Namibia can accelerate its mining project pipeline, develop critical minerals, expand downstream industries, improve financing for local suppliers and strengthen innovation across the sector.
The programme also introduces two new initiatives.
The inaugural Chamber of Mines Safety Conference, under the theme Safety for a Resilient Tomorrow, will focus on leadership, accountability, legal compliance, contractor management and strengthening safety culture across the industry.
The NamXplor Mining Project Pitch Challenge, hosted by the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board and sponsored by Appian Capital Advisory, will give emerging exploration companies an opportunity to present projects aimed at expanding Namibia's future mining pipeline.
Mining's broader contribution
Shaanika said Namibia's mining industry continues to demonstrate resilience despite global economic headwinds and remains one of the country's leading contributors to economic growth, exports, investment and employment.
He added that mining companies continue to invest in education, healthcare, skills development, community infrastructure and other corporate social responsibility programmes that provide lasting benefits to communities.
"The 2026 Mining Expo and Conference will inspire meaningful conversations, foster new partnerships and, most importantly, translate dialogue into practical action that will strengthen Namibia's mining industry for generations to come," Shaanika said.
