The Chamber of Mines of Namibia has raised concern over Namibia’s sharp drop in a key global mining survey, warning that the country risks losing investment if policy uncertainty is not addressed.
The warning comes after the release of the 2025 Fraser Institute Annual Survey of Mining Companies, which indicates that Namibia has dropped considerably in global rankings for mining investment.
Chamber president George Botshiwe said the decline sends a worrying signal to investors at a time when global mining activity is rising.
“Investor perceptions of our mining policies have weakened. If Namibia is not seen as stable and predictable, we risk missing out on exploration funding needed to discover future mines,” he said.
According to the report, Namibia’s Investment Attractiveness Index dropped from 66 points in 2024 to 56 in 2025. This saw the country fall from 30th place out of 82 jurisdictions to 51st out of 68.
This represents a significant deterioration in the country’s global competitiveness as a destination for mining investment.
“The index measures both policy conditions and mineral potential. It combines the Policy Perception Index and the Best Practices Mineral Potential Index,” he said.
Namibia recorded declines in both areas. The Policy Perception Index fell from 78 to 68, showing weaker confidence in laws and regulations. The Mineral Potential Index also dropped from 58 to 47, pointing to reduced confidence in the country’s mining prospects under current conditions.
Industry players who took part in the survey pointed to policy uncertainty as a key concern.
“Some investors raised alarm over proposals linked to the country’s development plan, including suggestions that new mining projects should have 51% Namibian ownership. Others cited planned laws such as a new water act, environmental regulations and a minerals bill as factors creating uncertainty,” he said.
Statements made during the 2025 mining conference also added to investor fears, particularly remarks suggesting a possible mandatory local ownership requirement.
The Chamber said these comments had a strong impact on Namibia’s international image and contributed to the country’s lower ranking.
However, the government has since moved to calm concerns.
Following talks between the Chamber and President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, authorities clarified their position on local ownership.
In December 2025, the National Planning Commission said there is no fixed requirement for local ownership in mining or other sectors.
The commission said the government remains open to discussions with investors to find a balance between local participation and business returns.
The Chamber welcomed the clarification, saying it restores some confidence in Namibia’s policy direction.
Mining remains one of Namibia’s most important industries, contributing significantly to export earnings, employment and government revenue. Key minerals include uranium, diamonds and gold, which attract global interest.
Analysts say Namibia still has strong geological potential, but warn that competition for mining investment is intensifying, especially from countries offering clearer, more stable policies.
The Chamber has called for continued engagement between government and industry to rebuild investor trust.
It says clear communication, stable laws and predictable policies will be key if Namibia wants to remain competitive and attract the investment needed to grow the sector.
-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na