The branch of the Independent Patriots for Change in Erongo has called on the mining industry to plough back into the communities in which they operate.
Its Chairperson, Aloysius Kangulu, says his party wants the industry to add value to resources instead of exporting them in raw form.
The Minister of Mines and Energy, Tom Alweendo, says there is a need to create an environment where Namibians can have local ownership of investment in the mining and petroleum sectors.
Alweendo was speaking at the Debmarine Stakeholder Breakfast Meeting in Windhoek today.
The Chinese-owned Swakop Uranium Mine near Arandis has proposed a joint venture with the government to build a second seawater desalination plant at the coast.
The mine appealed to Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila for the government to accelerate its plan.
Rossing Uranium has been given a new lease on life and will continue operations until 2036.
Managing Director Johan Coetzee announced the extension of the mine's life at Swakopmund.
About 300 B2Gold workers are on suspension after failing to work late shifts after the continuous operation and exemption permits for the mine expired.
The Erongo Region remains an active hub of economic development as it houses key industries such as the fishing sector, mining, logistics and transport, as well as tourism.
