On August 5, 2026, President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah officially opened the 13th edition of the Chamber of Mines Mining Expo and Conference in Namibia. The event, themed "From Dialogue to Delivery," reviews progress made since the launch of Namibia's Public-Private Forum (NamPPF) in 2025. This year's expo has attracted 222 exhibitors, a notable increase from 195 last year. The exhibitors comprise 198 local companies, 18 from the SADC region, and 6 international firms, indicating the event's growing international profile.
The President highlighted the mining sector's substantial contribution to Namibia's economy, stating that it accounted for 14% of the country's GDP in 2025. The sector also paid N$7.8 billion in taxes, representing a 37% increase from N$5.6 billion the previous year. This significant growth demonstrates the industry's resilience and investors' continued confidence in Namibia. The President attributed this success to the sector's efforts to create jobs and facilitate new investments under the NamPPF.
Under the NamPPF, the mining sector has committed to creating over 18,000 direct jobs and facilitating an estimated US$2.865 billion in new investment. The President reported that more than 1,000 jobs have already been created through projects such as Bannerman Energy's Etango Uranium Project and Deep Yellow's Tumas Uranium Project. With mining being one of eight economic enablers under the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), the sector is expected to play a crucial role in achieving the plan's target of 500,000 new jobs.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the need for the finalization of the Occupational Health and Safety Bill, the rollout of occupational health and safety centers nationwide, and the introduction of post-retirement medical schemes for miners, including small-scale operators. She also highlighted Namibia's strategic position as one of the world's leading uranium producers, with the country's uranium resources being a national asset that should support broader socio-economic development.
The President encouraged stakeholders to move from dialogue to measurable delivery, urging the mining sector to prioritize local beneficiation and skills development for long-serving employees. She also invited the public, particularly young Namibians, to visit the Expo, which is free to attend. The event provides an opportunity for stakeholders to engage with industry experts, explore new technologies, and discuss the latest trends in the mining sector.
The growth of the mining sector has significant implications for Namibia's economic development. With the sector's continued expansion, the President emphasized the need for sustainable practices, environmental responsibility, and social accountability. The President's call for stakeholders to prioritize local beneficiation and skills development reflects the government's efforts to ensure that the sector's benefits are equitably distributed among Namibians.
As the 13th Mining Expo and Conference continues, stakeholders are expected to engage in meaningful discussions on the sector's future prospects and challenges. With the President's emphasis on measurable delivery, the event provides a platform for industry leaders to share best practices, address concerns, and explore new opportunities for growth and development in Namibia's mining sector.
Key points
- President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah opens the 13th Mining Expo, highlighting the sector's significant economic contributions.
- The mining sector contributed 14% to Namibia's GDP and paid N$7.8 billion in taxes in 2025.
- The sector has committed to creating over 18,000 direct jobs and facilitating an estimated US$2.865 billion in new investment under the NamPPF.
