Elevate Uranium Ltd, through its Namibian subsidiary Marenica Ventures (Pty) Ltd, has applied for an Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) to explore for nuclear fuels in the ╪Gaingu Conservancy in the Erongo Region, the company’s environmental consultants confirmed.
According to Environmental Compliance Consultancy (ECC), which is managing the application, the process forms part of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) required under the Environmental Management Act (No. 7 of 2007) and its 2012 Regulations.
ECC said the proposed exploration will target uranium deposits using geological mapping, magnetic and gamma-ray spectrometry, geochemical sampling, and drilling techniques, including rotary air blast, reverse circulation, and diamond drilling.
“The purpose of this assessment is to obtain an environmental clearance certificate before any exploration can begin. The process includes screening, scoping, impact assessment, and the development of an environmental and social management plan to guide responsible operations,” ECC said.
The consultancy added that the exploration activities will be minimally invasive and conducted in line with strict environmental management standards during the project’s three-year tenure.
The ESIA will be submitted to the Mining Commissioner in the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy (MIME), which serves as the competent authority, while the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) will review the findings and make a final decision.
“The application will be assessed by the Mining Commissioner as the competent authority under MIME and reviewed by the Environmental Commissioner of MEFT for a record of decision,” ECC explained.
Potential impacts identified include limited vegetation clearing, minor groundwater abstraction, waste generation, and noise or dust emissions. ECC said these are expected to be low in significance and manageable under the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP).
“The potential impacts are anticipated to be low and readily mitigable through adherence to the ESMP,” ECC said.
Public participation forms part of the assessment process. ECC confirmed that notifications have been issued to the ╪Gaingu Conservancy, nearby landowners, and the public through local newspapers, inviting written submissions and registration by 30 November 2025.
“Interested and affected parties are encouraged to register and provide feedback on the proposed project to ensure inclusive participation in the environmental assessment process,” ECC stated.
Once approved, the ECC will authorise Marenica Ventures to commence exploration over a three-year period, with a possible two-year renewal, provided environmental and regulatory compliance is maintained.
