The Namibia Local Businesses Association (Naloba) has called for stronger government and private sector support to enable locally owned mining and exploration companies to play a greater role in the country’s mineral industry.
The appeal comes ahead of the Mining Expo, scheduled to take place in Windhoek from 4 to 6 August.
Naloba vice president Peter Amadhila says while Namibia has established itself as one of Africa’s leading mining destinations, mineral exploration and mining operations remain largely dominated by foreign companies.
“We respect and value international investors because their capital, technology and expertise have contributed significantly to developing Namibia’s mining sector. However, the time has come to build a stronger ecosystem where locally owned mining and exploration companies can also thrive,” Amadhila says.
He questions when Namibia will produce more successful black-owned mining contractors capable of leading major mining projects.
According to Amadhila, Namibian entrepreneurs have the skills and determination to discover and develop world-class mineral deposits but continue to face barriers, including limited access to exploration and mining finance, technical support, investment opportunities and clear policy backing.
“These challenges can be addressed through deliberate government policies, stronger partnerships between local companies and international investors and increased support for Namibian mining and exploration businesses,” he says.
Amadhila says a country endowed with vast mineral resources should produce locally led mining success stories.
“Empowering Namibian mining companies will create jobs, develop local technical expertise, retain greater value within the country and strengthen the sector for future generations,” he says.
He adds that future mineral discoveries should not only attract international investment but also demonstrate the capacity of Namibian-owned companies to develop and operate successful mining projects.
