Hope and Gorob Mining in the Erongo Region held a groundbreaking ceremony for its Copper-Gold Project near Gobabeb.
The ceremony brought together stakeholders to witness the start of a project aimed at unlocking mineral potential, creating jobs, and supporting long-term economic growth.
Hope and Gorob Project General Manager Luther Rukira has outlined the expected job creation linked to the mine, saying the operation is set to generate hundreds of permanent positions once fully operational.
"Overall, we are projecting about 270 to 280 jobs. At the mine itself, there will be 28 of our own team members. Unitrans, who will be our mining contractor, will account for about 110 jobs. The camp manager, Cowboys, will create around 40 positions. Security, ambulance and related services will make up about 15 jobs. Then at the processing plant, we expect about 85 jobs. Altogether, this brings us to roughly 274 permanent, meaningful jobs."
The Hope and Gorob Project says community development will be a key priority, with plans underway to finalise its corporate social responsibility policy focusing on nearby communities.
It also highlights potential collaboration with the Gobabeb Research Station and says production and exports through Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are expected to benefit the wider Erongo Region.
"Here we are thinking about the Topnaar community and what measures we can put in place to improve livelihoods, especially in health, education, and other key areas. We also have Gobabeb Research Station nearby, which has trained Namibians and international researchers at a postgraduate level. As part of our corporate responsibility, we want to see how we can collaborate with them. We will export the concentrate produced at Swakop Mine, which will also create spin-offs for the Erongo Region, with shipments going through the port of Walvis Bay."
Recent studies point to strong economic fundamentals for the Hope and Gorob Project, with stakeholders including Erongo Regional Council Chairperson Lazarus Kanelombe highlighting its potential to drive regional growth and investment confidence.
"A feasibility study undertaken by international consultants has projected a Net Present Value of approximately US$46 million and an Internal Rate of Return exceeding 60%. These indicators demonstrate not only the financial viability of the project but also the confidence investors have in Namibia as an attractive destination for responsible mining investment."
The Project is expected to move further into development in the coming months as stakeholders continue to push for job creation, community benefits, and regional economic growth.