Andrada Mining's direct economic contribution to Namibia has increased to N$775.2 million in the 2026 financial year, marking a 6% rise from the previous year's N$731.07 million. This growth is attributed to wages, royalties, and procurement as the company expanded its operations at the Uis Mine. The contribution, which is equivalent to £33.17 million, reflects the company's growing presence in the country.
The company's local remuneration at Uis amounted to approximately N$103.3 million, a slight increase from N$100.38 million in the previous financial year. During the year, Andrada recruited 126 employees and appointed 11 graduates from local communities to a 12-month internship programme covering various disciplines. This investment in local talent is part of the company's efforts to develop a pipeline of Namibian skills for its operations and the wider mining sector.
Andrada's procurement efforts also demonstrate its commitment to supporting local businesses. The company worked with 241 active suppliers during the financial year, of which 189, or 78%, were Namibian businesses. This focus on local procurement has contributed to the company's increased economic contribution to the country. According to the company's FY2026 Sustainability Report, this local spending has had a positive impact on the Namibian economy.
The company's activities have generated additional indirect economic benefits across the Namibian economy. Using the World Bank's mining-sector economic multiplier, Andrada estimated that its activities generated an additional N$330.2 million in indirect economic benefits. This highlights the significant impact that the company's operations have on the country's economy, beyond its direct contributions.
Andrada is also investing in water management and conservation efforts. During the financial year, the company reused approximately 101,287 cubic metres of low-quality, non-potable pit water, reducing its reliance on groundwater. However, total water withdrawals increased to 242,537 cubic metres from 201,299 cubic metres in the previous year, mainly due to higher mining and processing activity.
The company is engaging with the ministry of agriculture, water and land reform on long-term water supply solutions, including desalination, which could benefit both its operations and surrounding communities. Additionally, Andrada has made progress in reducing hazardous waste generation, with a 26% decline to 42 tonnes from 57 tonnes in the previous year. The company is also working towards alignment with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management.
Looking ahead, Andrada's priorities for FY2027 include appointing an Engineer of Record, conducting further tailings-material characterisation, and advancing detailed design work. The company will also continue to focus on biodiversity management at Uis, guided by its Biodiversity Action Plan. Chief executive Anthony Viljoen said the expansion of operations at Uis was creating greater opportunities for employment, local procurement, and skills development.
Key points
- Andrada Mining's direct economic contribution to Namibia increased by 6% to N$775.2 million in the 2026 financial year.
- The company worked with 189 Namibian businesses, or 78% of its active suppliers, during the financial year.
- Andrada estimated that its activities generated an additional N$330.2 million in indirect economic benefits across the Namibian economy.
