ONGWEDIVA – Acting executive director in the Ministry of Higher Education, Technology and Innovation Lisho Mundia has said the mining industry must embrace engineering innovations. 

The said innovations should prioritise resource efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and ensure the safety and well-being of local communities.

He made the remarks on Monday during the official opening of the three-day conference on International Engineering by the University of Namibia at the Jose Eduardo Dos Santos Campus in Ongwediva.

The conference is being held under the theme ‘Promoting sustainable Innovation: Technology Development for Namibia’s Future’.

Mundia said through rigorous research and development, technologies that not only extract minerals more efficiently but also rehabilitate mining sites, manage waste effectively and minimise emissions can be pioneered.

He stated that the beneficiation and value addition of mineral resources must be prioritised, as Namibia cannot afford to remain an exporter of raw materials.

“We must transition into a nation that processes and adds value to its resources, creating jobs, building expertise and retaining wealth within our borders,” he said.

Speaking at the same occasion, Associate Dean for the School of Engineering and the Built Environment Petrina Johannes said the conference aligns with Namibia’s development frameworks – Vision 2030, the National Development Plans, Southern African Development Community Agenda 2050, Africa Agenda 2063 and the sustainable development goals.

“Together, we aim to address challenges such as high unemployment, energy insecurity, underdeveloped manufacturing and water scarcity while fostering economic diversification and social well-being,” she said.

Johannes added that Namibia’s achievement in road infrastructure development demonstrates engineering excellence, but challenges remain.

She stressed that infrastructure is ageing, road fatalities are among the highest globally, and access to reliable water and energy is critical for social and economic
progress.

She noted that selected papers from the conference will be published, ensuring that the ideas and solutions shared reach a global audience and contribute to a broader dialogue on sustainable engineering and innovation.

-Nampa