WINDHOEK, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Tuesday emphasized the need for greater local participation in the mining sector, saying that more must be done to ensure Namibians benefit directly from the country's mineral wealth.
In a speech read on her behalf by Carlo McLeod, special advisor and deputy head of Upstream Petroleum Unit, at a mining expo in Windhoek, Namibia's capital, Nandi-Ndaitwah said Namibia is positioning its mining sector as a driver of inclusive economic transformation, with reforms to empower local businesses, expand employment, and strengthen national development.
"Our mineral wealth must not only fuel economic output but also empower Namibians as entrepreneurs, manufacturers, and innovators. The time is now to take ownership, not just as employees but as beneficiaries of this sector," she said.
According to the president, Namibia's mining sector generated 52.3 billion Namibian dollars (about 2.9 billion U.S. dollars) in 2024, contributed 13.3 percent to gross domestic product, and created over 2,600 new jobs. Local procurement accounted for 62 percent of industry spending, benefitting thousands of Namibian-owned businesses.
The president said Namibia, as the world's third-largest producer of uranium, is well-positioned to support the global energy transition, with projects like the recommissioning of the Langer Heinrich Mine and progress at Tumas and Etango expected to create jobs, boost exports, and expand Namibia's global role.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said the government is prioritizing the swift passage of the Minerals Bill, which aims to improve regulatory transparency, align with global governance standards, and enhance investment conditions.
From Tuesday to Thursday, the 2025 Mining Expo and Conference runs under the theme "Mining for Namibia's Future: Job Creation, Local Empowerment, and Economic Transformation." ■
