22/04/2025
First Female President Calls for Quality Jobs and Clean Energy in Landmark Mining Visit
During her first official engagement since taking office, Namibia's first female President, Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, praised Rössing Uranium Mine for its resilience during challenging years, consistent production, and the extension of its operational life to 2036.
Steve Galloway, Chairperson of the Rössing Uranium Board of Directors, noted that as global demand for uranium grows, Namibia is well-positioned to emerge as a major player on the international stage. With three world-class uranium mines currently operational and more in development, the country is set to become the world's second-largest uranium producer, after Kazakhstan. “Namibia's future in nuclear energy is bright, especially with the clear and public support of the new government,” Galloway said. “Opportunities for exploration, production, and value-added innovation are well within our grasp.” He also addressed the vital issue of resource ownership and economic equity, emphasising that Namibians have a rightful stake in the country's mineral wealth. Galloway called for a balanced, evidence-based approach to the “Government Take,” one that ensures national benefit while maintaining investor confidence. “We stand ready to engage in honest, constructive dialogue with government and all stakeholders to find win-win solutions that will move Namibia forward,” he affirmed.
Under the majority ownership of CNNC/CNUC, Rössing Uranium is celebrating what Galloway described as “perhaps the best period in our 49-year history.” The mine has seen five years of operational stability and strategic alignment with Namibia's national development goals. Dr Nandi-Ndaitwah visited Rössing Uranium Mine on Saturday, 12 April, to gain firsthand insight into the operations of one of the country's most significant mining assets. She acknowledged the mine's contributions to local communities and its commitment to safety and sustainability. However, she stressed that more must be done, particularly in the areas of worker welfare, youth empowerment, and local investment. “We want the mining sector to provide not just jobs, but quality jobs,” she said. “Our young people must have access to training, internships, and funding for entrepreneurship. This is how we build sustainable futures.” Looking to the future, the President reaffirmed Namibia's commitment to developing clean, reliable energy from uranium for peaceful purposes. She highlighted nuclear power as a potential long-term solution to the country's energy needs and a driver of economic growth. “There is no dream too big,” she said. “If we work together, we can lay the foundation for a nuclear power plant right here in Namibia.” Dr Nandi-Ndaitwah reiterated her administration's readiness to collaborate with the private sector to create a stable, growth-oriented investment environment, stressing that shared prosperity must be the ultimate outcome. She emphasised the mining sector's role in transforming Namibia's economy through value addition and empowerment of the youth. While commending Rössing for its resilience and commitment to corporate social responsibility, she called on the industry to invest further in sustainable employment, training, and inclusive development. The President also underscored the strategic use of Namibia's uranium to support a diversified energy policy, with a long-term goal of nuclear power generation. In closing, she thanked the Rössing Foundation for its work in education, health, agriculture, and community upliftment. “But we must go further,” she added. “Let the people of Arandis feel they are living in a mining town run by people who care, not just about output, but about the community that supports them.” The visit included a comprehensive briefing on mining activities, a site inspection, and a tour of the production facilities.
By Sharlien Tjambari
