Namibia’s mining sector generated export earnings of more than N$64.7 billion in the 2025/26 financial year, with uranium and gold overtaking diamonds as the country’s leading export commodities.
Industries, Mines and Energy Minister Modestus Amutse said the shift reflects strong global demand and elevated prices for both commodities, altering the composition of Namibia’s mineral exports.
“The uranium and gold subsectors have overtaken diamonds and are now the top export commodities due to strong global demand and high prices,” he said.
The sector contributed N$1.4 billion in royalty payments to government and created 580 jobs during the period under review.
Exploration expenditure reached N$121 million, driven by increased activity across both greenfield and brownfield projects, as companies seek to extend the lifespan of existing operations and identify new reserves.
Amutse said the ministry is advancing digital reforms to improve regulatory efficiency and service delivery.
“The ministry has finalised the e-government portal to enable online applications and payments for mineral rights, improving efficiency and transparency,” he said.
Government is moving towards a fully digital licensing system to reduce administrative delays and speed up permit processing.
Several mining projects are progressing, including the Kokoseb gold project, which is expected to reach a final investment decision in the second half of 2026, and the Haib copper project, which is nearing the feasibility stage.
Construction is under way on a third gold mine by Osino Resources and Shanjin International Gold Co., while two uranium projects by Bannerman Resources and Reptile Uranium are also in development.
Amutse said additional activity includes the restart of the Kombat copper mine, expected to employ 600 workers, alongside new copper projects at Gorob and Hope in Erongo and Ongombo in Khomas.
“These developments reflect continued investment in the mining sector and efforts to expand production capacity and employment,” he said.
The minister added that supporting infrastructure is also advancing, including a desalination plant being developed by NamWater and Swakop Uranium to secure water supply for mining operations and surrounding communities in the Erongo region.
