Namibia faces challenges in achieving sustainable economic development in post-mining towns
via The Namibian5 min read
Danny Meyer highlights the difficulties in establishing long-term sustainability in towns that developed around mining activities in Namibia, such as Kombat, Uis, Oranjemund, and Rosh Pinah. While mining has provided short-term benefits like employment and infrastructure, its finite nature necessitates alternative economic drivers. Despite efforts and funding from mining companies to diversify local economies, the overall impact has been limited, raising questions about alignment, ownership, and inclusivity. Previous proposals for economic transformation included repurposing buildings for garment manufacturing and developing tourism and agriculture. Meyer suggests that the apparent lack of inclusivity, particularly the limited involvement of local communities and entrepreneurs, may be undermining these initiatives. He emphasizes the need for a shift in approach, advocating for meaningful involvement from all stakeholders, including government, mining companies, local communities, and entrepreneurs, to build sustainable futures for these towns.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
National Council deputy chairperson Emma Muteka has urged a change in the approach to refugee support, moving from temporary relief to long-term empowerment. Speaking during a health committee site visit to a refugee camp in Istanbul, Türkiye, Muteka highlighted the need for interventions that create pathways for education, skills development, economic participation, and dignity. She questioned the long-term outcomes for children growing up in refugee camps and whether they are given opportunities to build successful careers. Muteka stressed that while immediate humanitarian needs are crucial, equal focus must be placed on the long-term development and future of displaced children. She emphasized that success should be measured not only by survival but by transformation, ensuring children have real opportunities to grow and contribute to society. Muteka called for stronger collaboration between governments and international partners to ensure refugee systems unlock potential, viewing every child in a refugee camp as a future leader, professional, or entrepreneur.
Two Namibian tourism companies, RuralRevive Namibia and Elephant Human Relations Aid Namibia, were recognized at the WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. RuralRevive Namibia received a gold award in the regenerative tourism section for its Building a Desert-Based Economy initiative, which focuses on rebuilding local food systems, restoring dignity through work, and creating a resilient desert-based economy around Maltahöhe. Elephant Human Relations Aid Namibia earned a silver award, also in the regenerative tourism sector, for its efforts in addressing human-elephant conflict, which has led to a significant reduction in incidents. Rachel Nxele, a SANParks board member, highlighted that the awards acknowledge organizations for their commitment and impact in building dignity, protecting nature, and honoring heritage. The WTM Africa Responsible Tourism Awards 2026 recognized 22 organizations from 13 countries across five categories, including championing cultural diversity, diversity, equity and inclusion, local economic benefit, nature positive, and regenerative tourism.
Ongwe Minerals Inc, a Canadian-listed gold exploration company focused on Namibia, has listed on the Namibia Securities Exchange NSX under the symbol “ONG”, with trading commencing on April 15. According to the company’s chief executive, Dave Underwood, this dual listing is a crucial step in establishing Ongwe’s presence in the local Namibian capital markets. The company’s primary listing will remain on the Toronto Stock Exchange TSX Venture Exchange. Underwood highlighted that the listing aims to simplify trading for both institutional and retail investors and facilitate participation in future capital raises. He also noted that Ongwe has a dedicated base of Namibian shareholders who previously invested in Osino Resources and Koryx Copper, both of which were listed on the Namibian exchange. Underwood emphasized that this move strengthens ties with the local investment community and reflects confidence in Namibia as a premier mining jurisdiction, aiming to diversify the shareholder base, enhance market liquidity, and provide Namibian citizens with a direct opportunity to benefit from the country’s mineral wealth. Ongwe Minerals Inc is currently developing three projects in the Northwest Damara gold belt, focusing on the Omatjete and Khorixas Gold projects.
Bayern Munich is poised to secure their 35th Bundesliga title this Sunday, just days after advancing to the Champions League semi-finals by defeating Real Madrid. With a 12-point lead and five games remaining, the Bavarian giants can clinch the title at home with a win against Stuttgart. A victory on Sunday guarantees the title regardless of Borussia Dortmund's result against Hoffenheim. If Dortmund loses, a draw would be sufficient for Bayern. Coach Vincent Kompany might consider resting key players ahead of a German Cup semi-final against Bayer Leverkusen. Despite their dominance in the league, Bayern has not reached the German Cup final since 2020. Stuttgart, currently third in the league, has shown strong form, losing only two of 16 games since their last encounter with Bayern in December. The two teams could potentially meet again in the German Cup final in Berlin in late May. Stuttgart forward Jamie Leweling emphasized the need for courage and bravery, but not recklessness, when facing Bayern. In other news, Hamburg defender Luka Vuskovic, on loan from Tottenham, has been crucial in his team's efforts to avoid relegation. Hamburg faces Werder Bremen on Saturday, with a win potentially securing their Bundesliga status for next season.