Navachab Gold Mine will embark on a N$4 billion underground expansion over the next four years, creating more than 150 jobs during the execution period, according to Managing Director George Botshiwe.
He said the project marks one of Namibia’s largest single mining employment initiatives in recent history and will have far-reaching economic impacts through increased local procurement and community development.
“This project is not just about mining more gold, it’s about unlocking opportunities for Namibians on a scale that will transform entire communities,” Botshiwe said during a recent sector engagement.
The underground development follows successful trials that proved deeper ore bodies previously uneconomical for open-pit mining can now be mined efficiently.
“Navachab has 2.43 million ounces in reserves and a total resource of 5.16 million ounces, with the expansion aiming to bring more of this into production through advanced mining technologies. Our expansion is as much about smart mining as it is about scale,” he said.
Navachab’s workforce has already expanded significantly, growing from fewer than 500 employees in 2020 to 889 permanent staff and 598 contractors in 2025.
Botshiwe said the upcoming expansion will further increase employment opportunities while reinforcing the mine’s commitment to sourcing locally. In 2024, 84% of Navachab’s N$2.49 billion spend was with Namibian companies.
“Every dollar we spend locally multiplies across the economy. We are intentional about empowering Namibian entrepreneurs and ensuring that the benefits of our mine reach far beyond Karibib,” he said.
Botshiwe noted that the mine currently operates at 550 tonnes per hour, up from 90 tonnes per hour in 1989, achieved without increasing its 3,500 m³/day water allocation or 9 MW power supply.
He attributed this to a five-step innovation plan, which introduced water-saving tailings systems, pre-concentration technology and the installation of a Swiss Tower Mill to process gold-bearing concentrate more efficiently.
“From day one, our challenge has been how to do more with the same water and electricity. The answer has been relentless innovation,” he explained.
He also pointed to the mine’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) as central to its growth strategy. Projects include the N$80 million Karibib Medical Centre, the NAD 3.5 million Usakos SME Park, and a borehole programme that has provided water to more than 3,560 people and 15,000 livestock across four regions.
“These are not side projects, they are part of our responsibility as custodians of the orebody. We mine for the Namibian people, and that means investing in health, education, and livelihoods,” Botshiwe said.
Looking ahead, Botshiwe said the mine is negotiating with NamWater for additional water supply and with NamPower for more electricity.
He confirmed Navachab is also applying to install solar capacity to improve its energy resilience.
“With the right infrastructure, we can double our treatment capacity again. We are not done yet,” he said.
