4 minute read
Namdeb
Shaping Namibia's Mining Industry Through Innovation and Sustainable Growth
Namdeb boasts a rich history intertwined with innovation and resilience. Since its establishment in 1994, Namdeb continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Namibia’s socio-economic landscape. The company’s ability to reinvent itself over the years whilst encompassing sustainable mining practices and commitment to local development has had a significant impact on shaping the Mining industry.
The life of mine extension has not only contributed to employment opportunities but has also spurred the growth of local industries, adding value to the town and community of Oranjemund. With over 3000 employees, both within Namdeb and its partner contractors, benefiting from this plan, the company's operational landscape is set for evolution aligned to its vision of being the Pride of Namibia’s Miningto 2050 and beyond.
The current phase of ramping up operations in the Southern Coastal Mines, is testament to Namdeb's forward-thinking approach and highlights the importance of resilience as well as innovation in an ever-evolving industry. This phase marks the initial implementation of the Long-term Plan, aiming to reach steady-state production by Q4 2023. The operational requirements include investing in equipment upgrades, as well as adopting new technologies and clean energy solutions to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
The collaboration between the company and Namibian service providers emphasises ethical sourcing and the development of small and medium-sized enterprises. Namdeb's contribution to the local economy is undeniable. Procuring goods and services locally, the company pumps around N$270 million per month into local businesses, forming a substantial portion of its expenses. This commitment showcases Namdeb's dedication to promoting economic diversification and supporting its surrounding communities.
Central to Namdeb's success is its unwavering focus on the growth and empowerment of its workforce. The company facilitates career progression through learning programs and development initiatives, ensuring that employees are equipped for both present challenges and future advancements. Interventions such as partnerships with national educational institutions and Workplace Learner development programs continue to support the growth of professionals with industry-related experience. The year 2023 has seen the awarding of scholarships to Namibian females studying in the post graduate Renewable Energy space. This supports Namdeb’s efforts of protecting the environment as well as creating an inclusive workplace. Furthermore, these opportunities are not only aligned to the strategic business requirements but sit at the core of driving nation-wide human capital development.
Namdeb remains committed to the socio- economic development of the communities impacted by its operations and in particular the Karas Region. Despite having faced closure which would have seen mining operations ceasing in 2022 prior to the approval of the life of mine extension in October 2021, Namdeb has continued to invest significantly towards sustaining the town of Oranjemund. Since 2017, the company has spent over N$486 million pertaining to infrastructure hand-over (Transfer) and approximately N$111 million worth of assistance towards infrastructure refurbishment and maintenance. These investments are in addition to Namdeb having to continue maintaining a school and hospital in the town, as these are key employee value proposition factors for the company and other entities. Furthermore, over N$70 million has been directed to sustainability and social economic development opportunities for Oranjemund over the last two years as part of the Oranjemund Town Transformation strategy. Namdeb spends approximately N$30 million annually to support the Oranjemund Pre Primary School (OPPS) and Oranjemund Primary Schools (OPS) and N$20 million for the Oranjemund Hospital. These entities are owned by Namdeb and enable quality education and healthcare for the community of Oranjemund.
As Namdeb continues to do the right things in ensuring a better tomorrow, it remains dedicated to optimising co sts and embracing new technology, a testament to its enduring legacy in shaping Namibia's Mining industry.
