WINDHOEK, Jan. 11 (Xinhua) -- Namibia has engaged emerging and small-scale miners as part of efforts to expand mineral beneficiation and broaden local participation in its mining sector, the country's Ministry of Industries, Mines, and Energy said Sunday.
The consultations on Jan. 7 with the Emerging Mining Association of Namibia (EMAN) are part of the government's strategy to strengthen the mineral value chain by incorporating input from smaller operators and supporting inclusive, long-term sector development.
Addressing the meeting, Minister of Industries, Mines, and Energy Modestus Amutse said the sustainable development of the mining sector depends on close collaboration between government and industry stakeholders, noting that practical experience from miners is essential for shaping effective policies.
"The development of Namibia's mining sector cannot be achieved by the government alone," Amutse said, adding that engagement with industry participants helps ensure that value-addition strategies are realistic and responsive to conditions on the ground.
EMAN President Thekla Mutero said emerging miners are ready to contribute more meaningfully to the sector and called for policy measures that enable local miners to legally own, develop, and benefit from the country's mineral resources.
Mutero raised concerns about restrictions on the use of modern mining equipment in areas classified as mining claims, saying such limitations negatively affect productivity among small-scale miners while advocating for regulated modern mining techniques that comply with environmental management and safety standards.
EMAN also suggested making it easier for miners to access processing facilities and crushers, and creating local geological and certification services to help improve their operations and make them more competitive.
The association welcomed the ministry's ongoing review of the Minerals (Prospecting and Mining) Act of 1992 and called for a balanced regulatory approach that supports sector growth while ensuring environmental responsibility.
Small-scale mining in Namibia is largely carried out by artisanal and emerging operators working on smaller deposits with limited capital.
The sector promotes local employment; however, it faces challenges such as limited access to finance, skills and training, licensing barriers, market access, infrastructure, and technology, all of which reduce productivity and competitiveness. ■
