11/08/2026
PARLIAMENTARY OVERSIGHT VISIT
DAY 2 – ONDOTO & OROUTUMBA (EPUPA CONSTITUENCY)
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources continued its oversight visit to the Kunene Region on Day 2, engaging communities in Ondoto and Oroutumba to hear directly from residents and small-scale miners about challenges surrounding mining activities in the area.
Community members raised concerns about access to mining claims, the impact of commercial mining operations on traditional small-scale mining livelihoods, and the ability of local communities to benefit from the mineral resources found on their land.
Among the key concerns raised were calls for locals to be prioritised in the allocation of mining claims, with residents saying that small-scale mining has historically been an important source of income for families in the area.
Residents of Oroutumba also raised concerns about the payment of N$1 per kilogram (N$1,000 per tonne) to Gecko when they are permitted to sell blue sodalite. Community members said they previously relied on high-grade sodalite from their mining pits to generate income and support their families, including paying school fees, but are now facing restrictions on accessing and selling the mineral.
Community members further raised concerns about employment opportunities, saying that only a limited number of local people are employed by mining operations and that many of these positions are temporary.
Concerns were also raised about the potential impact of mining activities on livestock, farming, gravesites and traditional heritage sites, with community leaders calling for meaningful consultation and the protection of cultural heritage.
Committee members acknowledged the concerns raised by the communities. Hon. Willem Amutenya stressed that mining activities should not displace communities or undermine the economic activities of people who depend on livestock, farming and small-scale mining for their livelihoods. He also questioned the implementation of policies intended to support small-scale miners.
Committee Chairperson Hon. Dr. Tobie Aupindi emphasised that Namibia’s mineral resources should translate into tangible benefits for Namibians, noting that the country has abundant natural resources while many citizens continue to struggle economically.
The engagements provided the Committee with first-hand accounts of the challenges experienced by communities living alongside mining operations and will contribute to the Committee’s ongoing oversight of the mining sector.
