President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah paid her first official visit to the Rössing Uranium Mine, where she highlighted the mining sector's vital role in driving economic transformation and uplifting the lives of Namibians.
During her familiarization tour, the President reaffirmed the government's post-election promise for a new era of leadership, declaring that it will not be "business as usual."
She called on the mining industry to align its objectives with the national commitment of unity in diversity: natural resources beneficiation, youth empowerment for sustainable development, and value addition.
She said the mining sector remains the number one priority in the Swapo Party Manifesto implementation plan because of its potential for job creation and in stimulating economic growth.
The President commended Rössing for its resilience and sustained operations, welcoming the recent extension of the mine's life from 2027 to 2036.
The President also encouraged investment in employee welfare, community development, scholarships, and support for young entrepreneurs.
"The mining industry must look after their workers in terms of a living wage, accommodation, health care, and a pension that should enable them to live a dignified life after their productive lives have come to an end. As a government, we want the mining sector to do more in offering sustainable and quality jobs, scholarships, job attachments, training, internships, and funds for young entrepreneurs that can empower our youth and help them build sustainable futures. We want mining companies to invest in the potential of our youth and the local economies where they operate."
Looking ahead, President Nandi-Ndaitwah is advocating for nuclear energy as a key pillar of Namibia's mixed energy policy.
Rössing Uranium Board Chairperson Steve Galloway reaffirmed the mine's commitment to national development, citing the mine's five-year success under its majority shareholder, CNNC/CNUC.
Namibia stands on the brink of a major expansion of its uranium mining and production, with three world-class operating mines currently and another two or three set for development over the next five years. Namibia is indeed poised to assume second place globally in uranium production, behind Kazakhstan and ahead of Canada. The concomitant exploration, production, and value-added innovations will surely follow, and Namibia's quest for nuclear technology, including nuclear energy, will surely materialize with the recent stated support of the new government.
He emphasized the company's readiness to engage with the government on equitable resource management, taxation, and its continued dedication to contributing to Namibia's economy, society, and future nuclear energy.