Weir’s Regional Engineering Director EMEA at Weir, Christian Stehle noted that the company’s approach is structured but holistic. “That promise plays out in four main areas of energy, water, waste and digital, all underpinned by a strong safety culture,” explained Stehle. The most immediate gains, according to Weir, sit in comminution, the most energy-intensive stage of mining. Instead of refining traditional grinding methods, the company is advocating for alternative flowsheets that reduce reliance on conventional tumbling mills altogether. “At Weir, we are promoting ‘non-traditional’ flowsheets built around high pressure grinding rolls, large ENDURON vibrating screens, coarse particle flotation and stirred mills to cut back on conventional tumbling mills. If you can do that in your flowsheet, then you use less water and significantly less energy compared to tumbling mills,” said Stehle.

The potential impact is substantial. A study conducted by Weir and independently assured by SLR Consulting indicates that switching to these newer technology combinations could reduce energy consumption by 40% and cut CO2e emissions by up to 50%. Rather than incremental efficiency improvements, this represents a step change in how processing plants consume power. These concepts are already being implemented in live projects. Weir has secured an order for high pressure grinding rolls at Ivanhoe Mines’ Platreef project in South Africa, demonstrating how alternative comminution technologies are being deployed at scale. In Namibia, the company is also supplying a crushing and screening plant for a gold copper operation, incorporating ENDURON crushers and vibrating screens designed to improve efficiency while lowering total cost of ownership.

Beyond energy, water stewardship and waste reduction form the next layer of the strategy, particularly in how tailings are managed. “For example, we have developed the Terraflowing dewatering solution which enables discrete tailings fractions to be handled in a way to produce an engineered paste product. By separating the tailings stream into discrete fractions, operators can handle them in different ways, providing a higher level of flexibility in the way they dewater their tailings, while still having a consistent end product.” explained Stehle.  Further efficiencies are being captured through improved classification and separation. Technologies such as the CAVEX CVD hydrocyclone range help reduce recirculating loads and unnecessary regrinding, lowering both water and energy demand across the circuit. Even wear parts,  often overlooked in sustainability discussions, are being reframed as a key lever.

Extending component life reduces material consumption and downtime, delivering both environmental and operational benefits.  “If you can make your parts last longer, that in and of itself is also a sustainability improvement, because you are using fewer resources to make new parts. Also, there’s a commercial advantage for the customers because their equipment runs longer with less downtime,” concluded Stehle. Overlaying these engineering changes is a growing digital capability. Through acquisitions including Motion Metrics, Micromine and Fast2Mine, Weir is building an integrated data ecosystem that connects pit to plant, enabling smarter, more predictive operations.

The post Weir Pushes System Redesign to Unlock Lower Carbon Mining appeared first on Namibian Mining News.

The slowdown expected in 2026 is tied to the wind down of open pit operations at B2Gold’s Otjikoto mine, a transition that might typically signal decline. Instead, it reflects a deliberate move into a longer life underground phase following the first blast at the Antelope project earlier this year. Extending the mine’s life to 2032, the investment underscores a broader pattern in Namibia where operators are choosing to deepen assets rather than exit them. This pivot is unfolding alongside a more assertive national stance on mineral development. Gold has been elevated within government strategy, as a strategic lever for economic resilience. The implications are visible in both policy tone and project momentum.

“New projects such as Twin Hills, the expansion of underground mining and continued exploration activity could position Namibia with a larger, more diversified and more resilient gold industry by the end of the decade,” said Andreas Salom, Acting Senior Manager for Investment Analysis and Development at the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board. That confidence is being tested and reinforced by the speed at which new assets are advancing. WIA Gold’s Kokoseb discovery has moved from identification to scale in a compressed time frame, building a resource base that now approaches three million ounces. The project has quickly shifted from exploration success to a capital allocation decision, backed by a recent A$92 million raise to accelerate drilling and technical work ahead of a final investment call expected in August.

The fundamentals suggest a project designed for early cash generation and steady output. A 2025 scoping study points to an operation capable of producing 177000 ounces annually in its initial years before settling into a lower but stable production profile across more than a decade. With capital expenditure estimated at $358.8 million, Kokoseb sits in the range that is financeable without requiring the scale of a mega project, a factor that is clearly resonating with investors. Execution risk, often the defining variable in projects of this scale, is being mitigated through a leadership group that blends regional familiarity with international track records. The presence of executives with experience in building and financing large gold operations lends weight to the project’s development pathway, particularly in a market where credibility often determines access to capital as much as geology does.

Simultaneously, Twin Hills is advancing as a parallel growth engine. Now under the ownership of Shanjin International Gold following its acquisition of Osino Resources, the project is expected to add a third commercial scale operation to Namibia’s gold portfolio. Its development is also notable for continuity, with the original Namibian team still embedded in execution, providing a degree of operational stability that investors tend to value. Even legacy assets are being repositioned. The Navachab gold mine is extending its life through a substantial underground expansion, supported by a resource base that continues to justify long term investment. Its workforce growth in recent years points to a mine that is not winding down but scaling in a more complex operating environment.

These developments suggest that Namibia is not experiencing a conventional gold rush defined by short term output spikes. Instead, the country is assembling a layered portfolio of assets at different stages of maturity, supported by clearer policy intent and sustained capital inflows. The more important shift lies in how these pieces fit together. Underground extensions, mid-scale developments and new discoveries are aligning in a way that reduces reliance on any single asset while extending the overall life of the sector. That combination of depth, diversity and timing is what is beginning to distinguish Namibia’s gold industry from many of its regional peers.

The post Gold Surge Gathers Force as New Discoveries and Capital Reshape Mining Sector appeared first on Namibian Mining News.

The site currently operates RCT’s multi-machine solution, AutoNav, across its production loader fleet and, last year, introduced four new Cat R2900G underground LHDs to replace older machines. These additions further enhance safety and productivity on site.

“All four installations were completed by RCT technicians at our Mount Isa branch, with the fourth loader, an NLK R2900G, being the last of its kind ever sold by Caterpillar,” said RCT Mount Isa Branch Manager, Danny Ballard.

“The R2900G model has been a prolific underground loader, and this final sale truly marks the end of an era.”

The well-established mine comprises an underground hard-rock mining operation and a surface processing facility.

Currently, operators control the underground LHD loader fleet from multiple AutoNav Centres located both on the surface and underground.

This setup removes operators from the machine cab, placing them in safer and more comfortable environments while maintaining full operational capability and reducing exposure to underground hazards.

“Automating underground loaders significantly improves operator safety while delivering stronger business outcomes for the mine,” said Ballard.

“When sites use our technology, operators are removed from harm’s way and placed into safer, more comfortable environments. That’s good for people and productivity.”

The site began using RCT’s Tele (tele-remote) systems in the late 1990s and was among the first sites to adopt AutoNav. It also became one of the earliest operations to remotely operate loaders from the surface.

“They have been a loyal customer for many years, and we continue to work closely together as they invest further in automation,” Ballard said.

Approximately 18 months ago, the site upgraded to RCT’s digital communications system, improving underground wireless capability, system reliability, and visual clarity.

“We look forward to continuing to support the team on their automation journey, made possible through our OEM-agnostic, scalable, and adaptive technology,” Ballard added.

The post Last Cat R2900G produced fitted with RCT’s AutoNav appeared first on Namibian Mining News.

Ongwe’s Chief Executive Officer Dave Underwood said the Omatjete Project has recently become the flagship project for the company since the regional sampling program outlined the large scale, high grade, gold in soil anomaly, now known as the Nguni target.

“Nguni is a totally greenfields discovery and there are no known gold occurrences in the area, highlighting once again how under explored the Damara Belt in Namibia is.

“We look forward to kicking off the maiden diamond drill program at Nguni in August, 2026,” said Underwood.

Ongwe’s team previously with Osino Resources sold to Shanjin International for CAD$368M) has a history of making and advancing gold discoveries in Namibia, including Osino’s Twin Hills currently in construction and Eureka deposits, and the advancement and sale of Auryx Gold’s Otjikoto gold deposit in production, sold to B2Gold for CAD$180M.

The company’s current focus is on the promising Omatjete and Khorixas Gold Projects in the emerging Northwest Damara gold belt.

The post Omatjete Gold project report filed appeared first on Namibian Mining News.

Held in June under the theme ‘Own the Future’ the conference brought together dealer principals, business leaders and key stakeholders from across Southern Africa and the broader African continent.

The event served as a platform to align on strategy, performance, network excellence and future growth opportunities while celebrating outstanding achievements across the UD Trucks dealer network.

This year’s conference marked a significant milestone for UD Trucks Southern Africa, with the opening day dedicated exclusively to SSA Markets for the first time. The move reflects the company’s commitment to expanding its footprint across the continent and supporting long-term growth ambitions towards 2030.

Among the many successes celebrated during the event, Nors Namibia stood head and shoulders above the rest, securing an impressive seven award nominations and five major wins, including the prestigious SSA Importer of the Year Award.

The company’s achievements included: Technician of the Year – Januarie, Nors Namibia, Driver Trainer of the Year – Ronald Zaahl, Nors Namibia, Parts Sales Executive of the Year – Arno Smit, Nors Namibia, Special Recognition Award – Lo-Nette Kotze, Nors Namibia, Service Dealer of the Year – Nors Namibia (Jaco van Vuuren) and SSA Dealer of the Year – Nors Namibia (Gerhard Rossouw)

The remarkable results are a testament not only to individual excellence but to a culture of teamwork, collaboration and shared accountability that has become synonymous with Nors Namibia’s success.

Accepting the Award, Gerhard Rossouw, Dealer Principal of Nors Namibia, highlighted the collective effort behind the achievement.

“This recognition belongs to every member of the Nors Namibia team. The awards may carry individual names, but they represent the commitment, dedication and teamwork of an entire organisation. We have built a culture where people support one another, challenge each other to improve and remain focused on delivering the best possible experience for our customers. Winning Importer of the Year is a proud moment for us, but more importantly, it motivates us to continue raising the bar.”

The dominance displayed by Nors Namibia across multiple categories reflects the strength of their operation across all facets of the business from technical excellence and customer support to parts sales, training and service delivery. Their performance demonstrates the value of a fully aligned team working towards a common vision.

Filip Van den Heede, Managing Director of UD Trucks Southern Africa, congratulated the team on their exceptional accomplishments.

“Nors Namibia’s performance at this year’s conference exemplifies what is possible when our importers are united by a clear purpose and a relentless focus on customer success. Their achievements across multiple categories demonstrate operational excellence, strong leadership and an unwavering commitment to the UD Trucks brand. They have established themselves as a benchmark for dealer excellence across our SSA markets.”

The significance of Nors Namibia’s achievement extends beyond awards. Their consistent performance positions them as a key contributor to UD Trucks Southern Africa’s broader growth ambitions on the continent.

Graham Kolm, General Manager: SSA Markets at UD Trucks Southern Africa, praised the team for setting new standards across the SSA region.

“Nors Namibia has shown what excellence looks like in practice. Their success is the result of a highly engaged team that understands the importance of collaboration and customer-centricity. To achieve seven nominations and convert five of those into wins is an outstanding accomplishment. They have firmly established themselves as one of the leading dealerships within our SSA importer network and continue to inspire others across the region.”

The conference also highlighted the strategic importance of Africa within UD Trucks’ global growth ambitions. The dedicated SSA programme provided an important platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and alignment among partners across the continent.

Fabrice Gorlier, Senior Vice President International Sales at UD Trucks, emphasised the role of high-performing partners such as Nors Namibia in driving future success.

“The future growth of UD Trucks in Africa will be built through strong partnerships, operational excellence and a commitment to delivering value to customers. Nors Namibia’s achievements demonstrate the impact that dedicated teams can have when they embrace innovation, collaboration and a shared vision for success. They are helping shape the future of our business in the region.”

As UD Trucks Southern Africa continues to execute its growth strategy under the theme “Own the Future,” Nors Namibia has emerged as a shining example of what can be achieved when talent, leadership and teamwork come together.

Their achievements at ADC 2026 are not only a celebration of past performance but also a strong indication of the future they are building one defined by excellence, customer focus and sustainable growth. As the newly crowned SSA Dealer of the Year, Nors Namibia is setting the pace for the region and proving that success is strongest when it is achieved together.

The post Nors Namibia Leads the Way as SSA Importer of the Year appeared first on Namibian Mining News.

The state-owned Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) has taken an equity stake in TJ Namibia Rare Earths, a special purpose vehicle established by Japanese trading house Toyota Tsusho Corp. to develop the Lofdal Heavy Rare Earth Project in northern Namibia. The deal marks Tokyo’s first rare earth mine development initiative in Africa.

The joint venture plans to complete a definitive feasibility study before taking a final investment decision in Japan’s 2026 financial year, which ends in March 2027.

The push comes as Beijing tightens export restrictions on heavy rare earths and related permanent magnet technology critical components used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, robotics, and advanced military applications. The Lofdal deposit holds significant concentrations of dysprosium and terbium, two highly sought-after elements where global supply remains heavily concentrated in China.

“The project could become Japan’s first rare earth mine development in Africa and help strengthen supplies of critical minerals,” JOGMEC and Toyota Tsusho said in a joint statement detailing the transaction.

Originally launched in 2020 as an exploration partnership between JOGMEC and Canada’s Namibia Critical Metals, the project expanded when Toyota Tsusho acquired a portion of JOGMEC’s interest through competitive bidding to serve as the project’s primary commercial partner.

For Namibia, the capital injection solidifies its position as a primary African destination for clean-energy and strategic mineral investments. The Southern African nation has seen surging international interest across its uranium, lithium, copper, and rare earths reserves as global manufacturers scramble to secure ethically sourced raw materials.

The post Japan Backs $34 Million Rare Earths Venture in Namibia to Diversify Supply Chains appeared first on Namibian Mining News.

Held from 23 – 25 July 2026 at the Walvis Bay Town Hall under the theme “From Discovery to Development: Talent, Capital and Local Content,” the summit brought together students, young professionals and Namibian and international delegates across keynote addresses, technical career pathways, financial-literacy sessions, MSME pitch spotlights, CV clinics and industry exhibitions. Convened by Founder Justina Erastus and held under the patronage of the Head of the Upstream Petroleum Unit in the Presidency, Kornelia Shilunga, this year’s edition marked a deliberate shift from raising awareness toward genuine participation and value capture, timed precisely to the moment Namibia moves from offshore discovery toward full-scale development.

Opening the summit, Erastus traced its evolution from a single conviction three years ago that “Namibia’s young people must not arrive late to their own national opportunity,” through awareness and career exposure in 2024, empowerment and local content in 2025 and now participation and value capture in 2026, growing in step with the country’s petroleum journey. With official youth unemployment standing at 44.4%, she warned that Namibia “cannot afford to build a spectator economy around one of the most consequential sectors in our history” and pressed government, operators, financiers and training institutions to open pathways now rather than later. Erastus added, “As the industry moves from exploration headlines towards development planning, this platform must also move from awareness to readiness and from readiness to participation. First oil is not the end goal, the goal is structural transformation, inclusive growth and long-term prosperity.”

Delivering the Patron’s remarks on behalf of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Shilunga commended the summit’s continued work empowering young Namibians to participate meaningfully in the sector, while cautioning that success in the industry is not “an opportunity presented on a silver platter” but must be earned through education, technical competence, discipline, innovation, hard work and perseverance. She framed young Namibians not merely as the nation’s future but as “active partners in shaping its present and determining its long-term prosperity.” Her central message tied preparation directly to the clock now running on the country’s development phase. She noted,  “Discoveries alone do not create prosperity. It is what we do after discovery that will determine whether these resources transform the lives of our people and build a resilient, inclusive economy. Namibia has discovered oil and gas. Now we must develop talent. We must mobilise capital. We must implement meaningful local content. And together, we must build an industry that creates lasting opportunities for present and future generations.”

The clearest evidence of that deadline came from NAMCOR Executive for Upstream Development & Production Mtundeni Ndafyaalako, who told delegates Namibia has entered “a decisive new chapter” as the Venus project approaches Final Investment Decision. He laid out figures that give the urgency real weight, an anticipated investment of over US$11 billion during the development phase and a further US$7 billion in operations, with more than US$2 billion earmarked for local spending across the Erongo, Kharas and Khomas regions. He pointed to thousands of expected jobs across construction and development, Namibianisation targets rising to 90% of direct jobs by the production phase, and the planned Venus Academy, a training institution set for commissioning in early 2029 to certify Namibian professionals against international energy standards. Ndafyaalako said,  “Opportunity will not wait for first oil as opportunity is being created right now in the readiness phase. Local content is not a gift or a quota, it is built on competence, compliance and commitment. NAMCOR is committed to walking this road with you, ensuring that Namibian talent powers Namibian prosperity.”

Remarks delivered on behalf of PETROFUND Chief Executive Officer, Nillian Mulemi, presented by Acting CEO Leorine Waggie, underscored how much groundwork is already being laid ahead of that deadline. PETROFUND has committed more than N$250 million to educate and train approximately 500 Namibians, while more than 60 young Namibians have secured internships and employment through over ten strategic MoUs with upstream operators and service companies, including 23 placements with TechnipFMC across four countries, 13 trainees with SBM Offshore in India and ROV pilot technicians deployed globally by Subsea7. Delegates were encouraged to register on PetroConnect, PETROFUND’s free digital CV repository, ahead of the 2027 PETROFUND Scholarship Programme opening for applications in the coming month. “The future belongs to those who are prepared. Apply for scholarships, register your CVs on PetroConnect, and take advantage of every opportunity to develop your skills. Your next career opportunity could begin with a single registration,” stated  Mulemi.

Walvis Bay Diving & Salvage’ Managing Director, Erna van der Merwe, welcomed delegates “home” to the harbour town, reflecting on the company’s three decades of commercial diving heritage since her father became Namibia’s first Class II commercial diver in 1996. She argued that diving, marine and subsea services sit at the centre of the industry rather than its margins, a field where coastal Namibians can compete at a world-class level, provided they move now to build the skills the sector will need. “The discoveries of the Orange Basin lie beneath the sea and everything built to develop them will need to be inspected, maintained and kept safe by people who can work beneath the surface. If you keep learning, nothing can stop you, the ocean off this coast is about to change our country and we will be part of that change,” said van der Merwe.

The second day shifted the conversation from understanding the industry to preparing to participate in it directly, an implicit acknowledgment that awareness alone no longer meets the moment. FNB Namibia’s financial literacy session, led by Anadine Buckley, framed financial discipline as foundational to both career and business success, while The Energy Explainer Founder, Mutundi Jacobs urged young Namibians to become lifelong learners and pursue internationally recognised certifications such as ISO 9001 and ISO 45001. Industry leaders including Wetu Ishitile, Naftal Akwenda, Connie Theyse and Gideon Tjimokutu discussed building bankable businesses and accessing funding, while the Development Bank of Namibia, the National Youth Fund and SME support organisations offered alternative-financing insights, with DBN’s Yunus Williams reminding delegates of the pathways available to viable businesses. A strong technical-careers thread ran through the day too, spanning offshore services, engineering, fabrication, marine operations and diving, with Halliburton RMA Technician Celine Shinda encouraging young people to stay curious and position themselves early. Hands-on CV development sessions, Health, Safety and Environment workshops, MSME pitch spotlights, exhibitions and networking rounded out a programme designed to connect young people directly with industry, before the window narrows further.

The summit’s overall message distilled into a consistent set of priorities for young Namibians, all pointed at the same closing window: build the right skills, develop financial readiness, pursue internationally recognised qualifications, prepare businesses to compete, embrace a culture of safety and above all, position early. The organising team extended thanks to the more than 700 delegates who filled the room with energy and ambition and to the partners whose investment, in Erastus’s words, “has built more than an event, it has built access.” The summit acknowledged Diamond Partner Walvis Bay Diving & Salvage, Energy Partner TotalEnergies, National Oil Company Partner NAMCOR and its commercial and strategic partners including Chevron, FNB Namibia, Standard Bank Namibia, Greenwood Supply Services, Logistics Support Services, 3C Metal Belmet, WWS Namibia, PetroFund, the African Energy Chamber, NAMPOA, ReconNamibia, Energy Capital & Power, The Prospect, Namibia Oil and Gas, the United States Embassy, Deloitte, MTC and Coca-Cola, alongside every hospitality, transport, connectivity and networking partner who contributed to the event.

As the third edition of the summit closed, the message to Namibia’s youth was unambiguous, the opportunities emerging from the country’s energy sector are real, significant and within reach but the runway to claim them is finite. The journey from discovery to development, organisers stressed, will depend on whether its people, businesses and partnerships are ready before the deadline the industry itself is now setting.

The post Namibia’s Oil Boom Comes With a Youth Participation Deadline appeared first on Namibian Mining News.

What distinguishes this phase of exploration is less the confirmation of lithium alone and more the emergence of Lithium Ridge as a multi-commodity asset. High-grade lithium results, supported by consistent tin and tantalum mineralisation, show a broader pegmatite system that could underpin a more resilient and flexible development pathway. In an environment where supply chains are under pressure to diversify and secure multiple critical inputs, such polymetallic exposure positions Andrada to align with evolving market priorities rather than a single-commodity thesis.

The expansion of the mineralised trend from six to nine kilometres materially shifts perceptions of scale. Yet the deeper significance lies in the distribution of mineralisation across multiple pegmatites beyond the primary trendline, suggesting that Lithium Ridge may evolve into a district-scale opportunity rather than a linear deposit. This introduces the potential for phased development, selective mining strategies and, ultimately, a more adaptable capital allocation framework as the project matures.

Andrada’s Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Viljoen, underscored this inflection point, noting, “The completion of the licence-wide surface sampling programme marks another important milestone in our evaluation of Lithium Ridge. The results extend the identified mineralised trend by an additional three kilometres and confirm high-grade lithium mineralisation across multiple new pegmatites, together with significant associated tin and tantalum mineralisation.” His remarks reflect a growing confidence not only in the presence of mineralisation but in its continuity and broader geological coherence.

The integration of surface sampling with ongoing diamond drilling is beginning to refine Andrada’s understanding of the subsurface architecture. Earlier drilling has already demonstrated lithium mineralisation from surface to depth and the current dataset enhances the company’s ability to model the system with greater precision. This layered approach of combining mapping, geochemistry and drilling, signals a methodical progression aimed at de-risking the asset ahead of more capital-intensive phases.

Viljoen added, “These results complement the encouraging diamond drilling results reported to date, which have demonstrated lithium mineralisation from surface to borehole depth and have strengthened our understanding of the scale and continuity of the broader pegmatite system.” The emphasis on continuity is particularly significant, as it underpins the potential for resource definition at a scale that could support long-term production scenarios. The partnership with SQM, one of the world’s leading lithium producers, adds a further strategic dimension. Beyond funding and technical collaboration, the earn-in agreement introduces an embedded validation mechanism, aligning Lithium Ridge with global industry benchmarks. As the project advances through staged exploration, this partnership may also accelerate the transition from exploration to development, particularly if the emerging resource base continues to demonstrate both grade and scale.

From a market perspective, the presence of high-grade lithium samples exceeding 3.5% Li₂O, alongside notable tin and tantalum values, reinforces the project’s potential to participate in multiple value chains. This diversification could prove critical in mitigating commodity price volatility while enhancing the overall economic profile of the asset. In effect, Lithium Ridge is increasingly being positioned as a broader critical minerals platform.

At the same time, the results highlight the importance of execution. While grab sampling provides a strong indication of mineral potential, the transition to defined resources, reserves will depend on the consistency of drilling outcomes and the robustness of geological modelling. The ongoing analysis of approximately 16,500 metres of diamond drilling will therefore be a key determinant of how quickly Andrada can convert exploration success into tangible asset value. There is also a broader geographic narrative at play. Namibia’s emergence as a credible destination for critical minerals investment is being reinforced by projects such as Lithium Ridge, which combine geological prospectivity with a relatively stable operating environment. This provides the company a platform to position itself within the global energy transition supply chain.

The expansion of Lithium Ridge marks a shift from ‘proof of concept’ to strategic positioning. The combination of scale, grade and polymetallic potential introduces a level of optionality that could shape development decisions in the years ahead. As exploration continues to unlock new zones and refine the geological model, the project’s trajectory will increasingly be defined by how effectively Andrada can translate its growing resource base into a commercially viable and strategically relevant asset.

The post Andrada Confirms Significant Polymetallic Potential Across Expanded Lithium Ridge appeared first on Namibian Mining News.

Rare earth elements have moved from being specialised industrial minerals to strategic inputs for the global energy transition, advanced manufacturing and economic security. Although the term ‘rare earths’ covers 17 elements, a smaller group of magnet rare earths are critical to the production of high-performance permanent magnets.

These magnets are used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, industrial motors, robotics, consumer electronics, data centres, medical technologies, aerospace systems and defence applications. Against this backdrop, Namibia is increasingly positioning itself as a credible alternative supplier of these critical minerals.

At the global level, rare earths have become a strategic resource class. dysprosium, terbium, neodymium, praseodymium and yttrium are no longer viewed merely as specialty minerals, they are increasingly treated as industrial security inputs.

This is particularly important for the US, Europe, India, China and Japan, which all are seeking to reduce dependence on concentrated supply chains and strengthen access to critical raw materials. Namibia’s relevance lies not only in the presence of rare earth deposits, but also in its stable mining jurisdiction, port infrastructure, established mining culture and growing policy emphasis on local value addition.

Broadmind Mining (Broadmind) is a Namibian-owned company developing the Eisenberg Carbonatite Rare Earth Project (Eisenberg Project) near Kalkfeld in the Otjozondjupa region. The project is notable for the scale of its inferred mineral resource and its potential to support an integrated Namibian rare earth mining, processing and beneficiation operation. Available technical information indicates that the Eisenberg deposit hosts rare earth mineralisation associated with an iron-rich carbonatite system.

The Eisenberg Project has progressed beyond a purely conceptual exploration opportunity. Broadmind has obtained an environmental clearance certificate, completed a preliminary economic assessment, and obtained a technical report prepared in compliance with Canada’s National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101), a stringent Canadian legal and regulatory framework governing the public disclosure of scientific and technical information relating to mineral projects. Broadmind is further progressing its Pre-Feasibility Study, which will be a key step in refining the project’s technical, operational and economic parameters.

The mining company’s stated objective is not limited to extracting rare earth-bearing material for export. It envisages mining, producing and refining rare earth elements in Namibia. This objective is strategically important because it aligns with Namibia’s growing emphasis on domestic beneficiation, value addition, skills development and industrial linkages, rather than the export of raw or minimally processed mineral products.

From a legal and regulatory perspective, however, Eisenberg remains a project moving through the broader development and permitting pathway. Environmental documentation indicates that it has applied for a mining licence within EPL 6688 for rare earth mining.

Eisenberg accordingly illustrates the emergence of a new generation of Namibian critical minerals projects: locally owned, beneficiation-oriented and aligned with national industrialisation objectives. Its ultimate development will nevertheless depend on the successful completion of the pre-feasibility study, finalisation of technical and economic assumptions, subject to financing, infrastructure and regulatory milestones

Lofdal is currently Namibia’s most advanced rare earth development and represents a compelling model for how international strategic partnerships can unlock critical mineral projects. Developed by Namibia Critical Metals, the project is focused on heavy rare earth elements, particularly dysprosium, terbium and yttrium. The project’s advancement demonstrates that geological potential alone is insufficient; credible partnerships with established industrial players are increasingly determinative of project success.

The project’s distinctive partnership structure offers significant legal and commercial advantages. Lofdal is being advanced with Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC), Japan’s state-backed resource security agency, and Toyota Tsusho, the trading and industrial supply chain arm of the Toyota Group. From a legal structuring perspective, these partnerships provide several benefits such as capital, market access through off-take channels, technical credibility and compliance assurance as well as enhanced bankability.

From a supply chain integration perspective, the JOGMEC and Toyota Tsusho structure directly links Namibian mineral development to Japanese industrial demand, particularly in magnet supply chains where Japan is actively seeking diversification away from concentrated supply sources. Recent public announcements indicate increased JOGMEC funding to support the definitive feasibility study and related de-risking work, as well as renewed drilling activity in 2026, signalling that Lofdal is transitioning from resource definition toward investment readiness. However, cross-border partnerships of this nature also present legal considerations that must be carefully managed: these include compliance with foreign investment regulations under Namibian law, potential technology transfer and intellectual property arrangements, cross-jurisdictional dispute resolution mechanisms, and alignment with Namibia’s beneficiation policy objectives, which require in-country processing rather than raw material export.

Namibia’s mining sector is governed by the Constitution and the Minerals (Prospecting and Mining) Act, 1992 (Minerals Act), which vests ownership of all mineral resources in the state and regulates exploration and mining activities through a licensing system administered by the Ministry of Mines and Energy.

The policy environment is evolving in response to the increasing strategic importance of critical minerals. Namibia’s beneficiation agenda is primarily driven by the Mineral Beneficiation Strategy for Namibia (2021–2030), which seeks to transition the country from a raw mineral exporter to a producer of higher-value processed and manufactured products. This policy is reinforced by the Government’s decision to restrict the export of unprocessed critical minerals, including rare earth elements, to promote local processing, industrialisation and value addition within the domestic economy.

At the same time, ESG considerations are becoming central to both regulation and investment decisions. Rare earth mining carries heightened environmental and social risks, requiring strict compliance with environmental approval processes, careful management of community impacts and adherence to evolving sustainability standards.

Collectively, these developments signal a shift toward a more interventionist and strategic regulatory framework, aimed at ensuring that greater value from mineral resources is retained within Namibia while balancing investor interests with long-term national development objectives.

For investors, Namibia’s rare earth sector presents both opportunity and complexity.

Integrated investment models: Strategic partnerships combining equity, financing and offtake are becoming more common.

Regulatory discretion: Licensing and project approvals remain subject to ministerial discretion.

Beneficiation requirements: Policies promoting local processing may impact project costs and timelines.

ESG considerations: Environmental and social risks must be carefully managed.

Geopolitical context: Projects are increasingly shaped by global supply chain dynamics.

Namibia’s rare earth sector is strategically positioned, but legally and commercially demanding. Broadmind’s Eisenberg Project reflects the promise of locally owned beneficiation-oriented mineral development. Lofdal demonstrates how international strategic partnerships can convert geological potential into a more bankable supply chain proposition.

The emerging legal landscape suggests that rare earth projects in Namibia will increasingly be assessed not only on mineral title and resource size, but on their ability to deliver local processing, Namibian participation, environmental compliance, infrastructure solutions, community benefits and credible routes to market. For investors, the opportunity is significant; for project developers, the compliance burden is increasing; and for Namibia, the central challenge will be converting rare earth potential into long-term industrial value.

*Rihupisee Kavari and Shereef Martin are Associates in Corporate & Commercial practice at Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Namibia

The post Strategic partnerships and the emerging legal landscape appeared first on Namibian Mining News.

The extension gives companies, professionals and organisations operating throughout Africa’s lifting industry an additional two weeks to complete and submit their entries.

The awards recognise outstanding lifting projects, engineering achievements, innovative products and services, safety initiatives, training programmes, environmental responsibility and individual excellence across the industry.

“We have extended the deadline to give companies sufficient time to prepare strong entries supported by the necessary project information, technical details, photographs and supporting documentation,” said Surita Marx, Managing Director of Lifting Africa.

“This is the final opportunity for companies and individuals to showcase the work, innovation and people helping to advance Africa’s lifting industry. We encourage everyone who has started an entry to complete it and those who have not yet entered to act now.”

Presented to a high-achieving lifting apprentice or technician. Candidates may be nominated by employers and educational establishments.

Nominations will be verified by the Lifting Awards Committee, and shortlisted nominees will be interviewed by an appointed panel.

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