The Swapo Party Youth League (SPYL) has urged the Namibian government to review and set aside the Environmental Clearance Certificate issued for phosphate mining. SPYL Secretary Ephraim Nekongo stated that the decision to grant the clearance, issued by Environmental Commissioner Timoteus Mufeti on August 6, poses significant environmental and health risks. The clearance is valid until 2029. Nekongo emphasized that protecting marine resources and the fishing industry should take precedence over short-term economic interests.
The proposed phosphate mining project has sparked concerns among environmental groups and stakeholders in the fishing industry. Environmental experts have raised concerns that phosphate mining could generate radioactive waste, toxic water pollution, and severe habitat loss. Both land-based strip mining and proposed marine dredging activities pose significant threats to the environment and livelihoods of communities reliant on healthy marine ecosystems. Nekongo argued that ministers have a constitutional responsibility to direct, coordinate, and supervise their ministries.
The Namibia Chamber of Environment notes that the country's phosphate deposits occur in sand particles, meaning mining would involve dredging rather than conventional excavation. According to their experience from Namibia's diamond-mining sector, disturbed seabed areas could recover within six to ten years. An Environmental and Social Impact Assessment by Environmental Compliance Consultancy identified potential impacts on the seabed, marine life, and fishing but rated them as low, localized, and manageable through monitoring and mitigation measures.
The mining project is expected to create jobs, grow the economy, generate government revenue, and reduce Namibia's reliance on imported fertilizer. However, Nekongo and other critics argue that these benefits do not outweigh the potential environmental and health costs. In 2013, phosphate mining was placed under a moratorium due to insufficient scientific evidence. Former Environment Minister Pohamba Shifeta suggested that a subsequent study may have influenced Mufeti's latest clearance decision.
SPYL's call for a review of the environmental clearance certificate is not just about the potential environmental impacts but also about ensuring that the granting of such certificates is not left solely to administrative functionaries. Nekongo stated that the Cabinet of the Republic of Namibia must ensure that the preservation of Namibia's natural resources is prioritized. The organization emphasizes that protecting the environment and the fishing industry is crucial for the livelihoods of many Namibians.
The proposed phosphate mining project has faced opposition from politicians and members of the public. Critics argue that the project could have long-term consequences for the environment and the fishing industry, which is a significant contributor to Namibia's economy. While some argue that the project could bring economic benefits, others believe that these benefits do not justify the potential risks.
The review of the environmental clearance certificate is now a critical issue for the Namibian government. The government must balance the potential economic benefits of the project against the potential environmental and health impacts. The decision will have significant implications for the country's natural resources and the livelihoods of many Namibians.
Key points
- The Swapo Party Youth League has urged the Namibian government to review the environmental clearance certificate for phosphate mining due to concerns over environmental and health impacts.
- The proposed phosphate mining project has sparked concerns among environmental groups and stakeholders in the fishing industry.
- The project is expected to create jobs, grow the economy, and generate government revenue, but critics argue that these benefits do not outweigh the potential environmental and health costs.
