Mining investment in Namibia is expected to create more than 24,000 jobs once major projects reach full production, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has announced.
Speaking during the 2026 State of the Nation Address, the President said 15 projects valued at N$63.5 billion are currently underway, having already created 1,934 jobs.
“In parallel, 15 additional projects worth N$63.5 billion are progressing, having already generated 1,934 jobs, with total employment expected to reach 24,195 at full capacity,” she said.
This adds to 13 operational projects worth N$4.3 billion, which created 1,503 jobs during the period under review.
Key projects include the Osino Gold Mine and Bannerman’s Etango Uranium Project, which are expected to drive future production in the sector.
The mining industry remains a key contributor to the economy, generating more than N$64.7 billion in export earnings in the 2025/26 financial year and contributing N$1.4 billion in royalties. The sector also created 580 additional jobs.
The President said uranium and gold have overtaken diamonds as Namibia’s top export commodities due to strong global demand and higher prices. Diamond revenues have come under pressure amid competition from lab-grown diamonds.
“To support the natural diamond market, Namibia became a signatory to the Luanda Accord at the 2026 Investing in African Mining Indaba,” she said.
Government is also developing a Minerals Beneficiation Policy and plans to update the Minerals (Prospecting and Mining) Act of 1992.
A separate study is underway to improve the use and value addition of critical minerals.
At the same time, energy projects worth more than N$8 billion are being implemented to support mining and industrial growth.
“Once completed, these developments are expected to raise national electricity generation capacity from 759 megawatts to 903 megawatts within the current financial year,” she said.
