Orano Mining Namibia is targeting completion of a definitive feasibility study for the potential restart of the Trekkopje Uranium Mine by the end of 2026 as the company advances technical assessments and resource evaluation work at the long-idled project.
According to the Chamber of Mines of Namibia 2025 annual review, the French uranium company launched the definitive feasibility study in 2025 following completion of a prefeasibility study in 2024.
The Chamber said the first phase of the study involved a detailed assessment of equipment and infrastructure that has remained under care and maintenance since operations were halted in 2013.
“Findings were positive, indicating that only limited capital and effort would be needed to restore the plant for a possible restart,” the report said.
As part of the study process, the company completed a major drilling campaign during 2025 aimed at improving geological confidence and expanding indicated resources.
“A total of 724 boreholes were drilled, covering 15,200 metres,” the Chamber said.
The updated geological resource model is expected to be completed during the first quarter of 2026 before being incorporated into the final feasibility assessment.
“The final phase will involve completing the full feasibility study by the end of 2026, including the construction and operation of a pilot plant to verify technical assumptions and confirm economic viability,” the report said.
Subject to positive study outcomes, Orano plans to seek an internal “go-to-mine” decision by the end of 2026, which could pave the way for detailed engineering work and completion of remaining infrastructure at the MAXI processing site.
The Trekkopje Uranium Mine, located about 70 kilometres north-east of Swakopmund, is regarded as one of Namibia’s largest uranium deposits following its discovery in 2005.
The mine was placed under care and maintenance after the collapse in uranium prices more than a decade ago, but renewed global interest in nuclear energy and stronger uranium prices have improved the project outlook.
According to the World Nuclear Association, the uranium market is expected to face a supply shortfall of about 150 million pounds by 2040 as demand for nuclear fuel increases.
Financial disclosures contained in the Chamber report show Orano Mining Namibia recorded a loss of N$219 million in 2025, while spending N$28 million on wages and salaries and N$28.7 million on procurement, of which 90.59% was sourced locally.
The company also spent N$682,867 on training and skills development and awarded one bursary during the year.
Water supply for the Trekkopje project is sourced from the Erongo Desalination Plant at Wlotzkasbaken.
