Namibia’s Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy has begun issuing notices to non-compliant mineral rights holders as part of a broader crackdown on idle mining licences, warning that mineral rights are granted for production — not speculation.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Natangwe Ithete, made the announcement at the official opening of the 2025 Mining Expo in Windhoek on Tuesday, stressing that the government would no longer tolerate the hoarding of licences for purposes unrelated to national development.
“Among all these good developments, there are several licences issued where no activity has commenced. This must change, because the mineral rights are granted with the intention of production,” he said.
Ithete stated that while the ministry, in collaboration with the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), remains open to constructive dialogue to address legitimate challenges, it will not allow mineral rights to be withheld without justification.
He also emphasised the government’s commitment to strengthening local ownership, building capacity, and promoting value addition in the mining sector.
He confirmed that the ongoing review of the Minerals Bill would be informed by extensive stakeholder consultations to ensure the legal framework aligns with the goals of a modern and equitable mining industry.
“The Government’s strategic priorities remain clear: value addition, beneficiation, local content development, skills transfer, and employment creation. These are not just policy buzzwords, they are the pillars upon which inclusive and sustainable growth must be built,” Ithete said.
He urged mining companies to go beyond standard corporate social responsibility practices by investing in surrounding communities through education, housing, healthcare, and essential services.
“It is not business as usual; therefore, it cannot be corporate social responsibility as usual,” he said. “Local empowerment is not only a matter of social justice, but also a cornerstone for long-term stability and sustainability in the sector.”
Ithete concluded by calling on industry leaders to “mine for Namibia’s future”, highlighting that the responsible and inclusive development of the country’s mineral wealth must directly benefit the people.
