The Emerging Mining Association of Namibia (EMAN) has raised concerns about restrictions on the use of modern equipment for mining in areas categorised as mining claims, noting that such limitations negatively impact operational productivity for small-scale miners. During a meeting last week with the industries, mines and energy ministry, the association underscored the necessity for well-regulated, modern mining techniques that align with environmental management and safety standards.

Such techniques, EMAN stressed, would help small-scale miners reduce occupational hazards and promote sustainable, compliant mining practices.

The Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy last week convened the consultative meeting with EMAN to gather input and foster collaboration on the implementation of natural resources beneficiation strategies. The meeting is seen as a significant move to strengthen the domestic mineral value chain.

At the meeting, EMAN president, Thekla Mutero, reiterated the association’s commitment to supporting Namibia’s mining sector. “Namibia’s emerging miners are ready to contribute fully to the country’s mining sector. Our association exists to ensure that local miners can legally own, develop, and benefit from their resources. We therefore welcome this engagement with the ministry to turn opportunities into real impact,” Mutero stated.

Moreover, EMAN commended the ministry for its ongoing initiatives, including the review of the Minerals (Prospecting and Mining) Act, 1992 (Act No. 33 of 1992). The association also recognised efforts to strengthen regional support structures and called for a balanced approach that supports sector growth while keeping regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility.

EMAN further proposed that the ministry enhances access to processing facilities and crushers and establish local geological and certification services. These measures, the association noted, would support value addition efforts and ensure that emerging miners have the necessary resources to succeed.

Addressing the meeting, the Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Modestus Amutse, highlighted the crucial role of early and ongoing engagement with key stakeholders in the mining sector. He emphasised that effective and sustainable implementation of value addition to Namibia’s natural resources depends on practical input from those directly involved in the industry.

“The development of Namibia’s mining sector cannot be achieved by the Government alone. It requires meaningful collaboration with stakeholders on the ground, whose practical experience is essential in shaping effective and responsive policies,” said Amutse.

The minister expressed appreciation to EMAN for their comprehensive submission, which detailed the challenges facing emerging and small-scale miners in Namibia and offered proposals to strengthen local participation in the mining value chain.

Meanwhile, the ministry noted that it remains committed to fostering an inclusive and sustainable mining sector, actively collaborating with stakeholders to advance beneficiation, enhancing local participation in the mineral value chain, and maximising long-term benefits for the country.

The domestic mining sector, traditionally the bedrock of Namibia’s economy, is actively pursuing beneficiation to transcend beyond raw mineral exports by processing, smelting, and manufacturing locally. This value addition drive aims to industrialise the sector and the country and create positive spinoffs like jobs, boost GDP, increase government revenue, and foster downstream industries. In essence, Namibia aims to shift from a raw resource exporter to a processing and value-added economy, maximising national benefits from the country’s rich mineral wealth, which in 2024 generated more than N$52.3 billion in revenue and contributed over 13% to GDP.