The Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Modestus Amutse, has embarked on an official visit to the Erongo Region to assess mining activities and advance government plans for natural resource beneficiation.

Amutse emphasised that the Erongo Region remains one of the most mining-intensive zones on the African continent. 

Given the ministry's broad oversight, ranging from energy generation and regulation to the management of the mining sector.

"The Erongo region is one of the regions with the most mines in the whole of the continent. So that's the reason why I decided to come to the Erongo Region, because it's the first time since the appointment to familiarise myself with the activities of mining, specifically with the focus of planning how to increase the level of natural resource beneficiation."

The minister reminded stakeholders of the government's stance on shifting away from the export of raw materials to ensure that minerals are treated locally before export.

This will also create jobs through the value chain.

The government also aims for economic injection, retaining a larger share of mining profits within the domestic economy.

"We believe that that is doable. We have been extensively engaging those in the mining sector to ensure that, at the end of the day, the dream of natural resource beneficiation is realised. And I'm confident that the Ministry will drive that agenda successfully."