The Council of Churches in Namibia (CCN) is actively advocating for crucial reforms in the mining and extractive industries.
Its ongoing Alternative Mining Indaba in Namibia revolves around the theme "Increasing Benefits from Mining and Extractive Industries to Address Socio-economic Development Challenges."
Focused on achieving "tax justice" and legally mandated corporate social responsibility, the Council aims to enforce responsible mining practices and ensure industry contributions towards community development.
The Legal Assistance Centre (LAC) presented findings from a nationwide public consultation, revealing issues like destructive mining practices, community exclusion from decision-making, and insufficient communication on environmental and health matters.
"There is a need for a review of the compensation guidelines, land relocation, and other disruptions caused by mining activities. because while they may employ our people as security guards and cleaners, it is also not solving the problem if you are underpaying them. Compliance with corporate social responsibility is not imposed as legislation, which is why we have issues," explained Cloe Brandt of the LAC.
Despite the industry's profitability, the Council emphasises its destructive nature and calls for sustainable and equitable mining practices, prioritising environmental protection.
Speakers, including Mandla Hadebe from the Economic Justice Network of the Christian Fellowship of Southern Africa and Chairperson of the CCN Executive Committee, Pastor Ferdinand Otto, also presented their concerns.
Major concerns include community exclusion from decision-making, perceived one-way communication on government platforms, and inadequate information dissemination on critical issues. Communities express frustration over the lack of partnerships, job opportunities, and funding for vital development areas.
Financial distress post-mine closures is a recurring issue.
CCN urges the church to break its silence, actively advocating for social justice amidst challenges faced by ordinary Namibians and fostering a more equitable and sustainable future for all.