Emerging miners push reform priorities as Mineral Act review still not finalised

Emerging and small-scale miners have called for the government to support production at small-scale mines.

“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,” Emerging Mining Association of Namibia (Eman) president Thekla Mutero says.

She was speaking at a consultative meeting with the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energies last Wednesday, which took place against the backdrop of the government’s ongoing review of the Minerals Act.

Draft amendments to the Mineral Act of 1992, which was under public consultation in 2025, introduce stricter requirements for local ownership and beneficiation.

Eman submitted proposals to the ministry during the meeting intended to strengthen local participation in the mining value chain, according to ministry spokesperson Anna Salkeus.

The association raised concerns that restrictions on the use of modern equipment on mining claims, as well as insufficient access to processing facilities limit the contributions of small-scale miners to mining and mineral beneficiation.

Line minister Modestus Amutse says he welcomed the input of emerging miners.

“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,” Amutse says.

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