Kunene small-scale miners raise concerns over working conditions and resource access
Small-scale miners in Namibia's Kunene region have voiced concerns regarding conflicts with larger mining companies, substandard working conditions, and limited access to mineral resources within their communities. These issues were highlighted during a three-day oversight mission by the National Assembly standing committee on natural resources. In the Oroutumba mining area, small-scale miner Isaac Murumbua reported being stopped from mining sodalite by Gecko Mining, despite holding an environmental clearance certificate since 2019. Community members also expressed distress over mining activities disrupting their livelihoods, with some forced to relocate fields due to drilling noise or move to other villages for grazing. Additionally, some community members were denied consent letters by mining companies, hindering their ability to obtain approvals for mining. During a visit to Okarikua Mining, the committee learned that commercial production has not yet started, two years after exploration began, as rock samples are still being tested. The committee also noted poor working conditions at mining sites, including insufficient personal protective equipment, inadequate ablution facilities, lack of shade, and the absence of safety and first-aid officers. Committee member Imms Nashinge emphasized the need for more action to address these challenges.
