Some traditional leaders in the Aminuis constituency are strongly opposed to the proposed mining of uranium along the Stampriet aquifer.

The leaders are of the opinion that they were not properly consulted in the matter.

They say that given the aquifer being one of the only precious basins that gives water to most communities, it will not be ideal to allow the extraction of uranium.

A senior traditional councillor of the Ovambanderu Traditional Authority, Otniel Kavari, says that they are the custodians when it comes to people and resources in Aminuis constituency; hence, proper consultation is of paramount importance before any commencement of proposed mining activities.

Kavari adds that a clear road map should be set by the government and all involved stakeholders.

"I would say that this proposed uranium mining should not go ahead until our government comes and sits with us because we want to hear about the end results."

On his part, Bethold Tjiundje of the Ovaherero Traditional Authority says that they are hearing about possible developments and job opportunities coming into the area, but what remains questionable is the aspect of water contamination.

"Our government should find ways to accommodate everyone so that it doesn't look like we are just blaming the government; sometimes we don't have an option because we are in pain."

The Vice Chairperson, Kuzaatu Uandara, emphasised that the association is trying its level best to share information with the community on the pros and cons associated with the proposed method that will be used for extracting uranium.

Uandara also added that the community wants to get assurance from the government on what will happen if underground water is contaminated.

Uandara says that the committee will also seek an audience with a parliamentary standing committee on natural resources to share their findings about uranium mining activities.