The axe forgets; the tree remembers. – African proverb
Namibia’s mining sector is a crucial driver of economic growth, contributing 10% to the GDP and attracting global investment.
Recently, the country lifted its ban on exporting unprocessed lithium, a key component for green technologies.
While this move positions Namibia as a leader in the green energy sector, it also throws the spotlight on a critical issue: The need for ethical and sustainable mining practices.
The rush for critical mineral resources highlights the tension between economic gains and environmental stewardship, especially in sensitive areas like the Namib Naukluft National Park.
The recent Xinfeng v The Minister of Mines and Energy case, where a mining licence was revoked over fraud allegations, further underscores the importance of rigorous regulatory adherence.
As Namibia forges ahead with green energy transition, it must balance economic ambitions with a steadfast commitment to sustainability and heritage protection. By setting high standards for mining practices, Namibia can showcase how to advance economically while preserving its natural and cultural treasures.
INCLUSIVITY
The Southern Desert 6 Conference at the end of last month brought together experts to advocate ethical mining and sustainability, highlighting Namibia’s key role in the global energy transition.
The event emphasised balancing economic growth with preserving the country’s environment and cultural heritage – ensuring a sustainable future.
The session ‘Mining the Desert’, led by Karin Olson Hoal from Cornell University in the US, focused on the growing demand for metals in renewable energy and the mining sector’s shift towards sustainability.
Discussions emphasised minimising environmental and social impact, leveraging new technologies and including indigenous communities in decision-making.
Vanessa Elliott, who has worked on major project developments in Australia, highlighted the effects of mining on First Nations in Australia, advocating increased involvement and regulatory changes.
Social anthropologist Elsemi Olwage explored the Aonin community’s efforts to reclaim maritime heritage in Namibia.
Juris Burlakovs from Latvia presented sustainable landfill solutions for desert regions, identifying new mining opportunities.
Echoing Kanye West’s words, “I’m living proof that you can be rich and have your soul,” Christopher R Hill connected Christian redemption to the integration of south-western Africa into European capitalism.
Hill, from the University of South Wales, argued that Protestant values shaped extractive capitalism, drawing on German sociologist Max Weber’s theories.
HERITAGE CONCERNS
Mike Hannis, a university lecturer on ethics, politics and the environment in the United Kingdom, called for ethical mining aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, while the National Heritage Council of Namibia faces challenges in managing mining impacts.
The council aims to boost collaboration and public awareness, balancing heritage preservation with sustainable development.
Namibian archaeologist John Kinahan emphasised the need to reconcile economic development with preserving the Namib Desert’s cultural and ecological heritage.
Kinahan has more than 40 years’ experience in archaeological research in the Namib.
He called for integrating archaeological impact assessments (AIAs) with environmental impact assessments (EIAs), criticising superficial adherence to the National Heritage Act, which has yet to halt mining projects over heritage concerns.
He urged stricter standards, rigorous community engagement and separating heritage assessments from environmental reviews.
Namibia’s Constitution highlights the nation’s commitment to unity, liberty, justice and cultural heritage protection.
Article 95 mandates ecosystem preservation as crucial for safeguarding heritage, though Oliver Ruppel, a professor of law at Stellenbosch, pointed out enforcement gaps, as seen in the Ramatex case.
While the National Heritage Act covers tangible heritage, it lacks provisions for protecting intangible assets and fails to fully integrate heritage preservation with mining activities.
Legal reforms are crucial to prevent the loss of Namibia’s cultural and historical treasures amid ongoing economic growth.
SAFEGUARDING THE FUTURE
Vice president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, at the 11th Mining Expo, highlighted Article 100’s mandate for state ownership and careful management of natural resources, calling it “non-negotiable”.
She advocated stronger legal frameworks to prevent heritage loss in mining activities.
John Walters emphasised the ombudsman’s role in safeguarding human rights and managing the impact of mining, aligning with article 19’s guarantee of cultural rights.
To balance the energy transition with heritage preservation, Namibia must reform laws like the Minerals Act, the Environmental Management Act and the National Heritage Act.
- * Steyn NM Silvanus has an LLB, and aims to offer a fresh perspective on integrating ethical mining practices with heritage protection and environmental considerations.
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