Namdeb helps in transforming Oranjemund

NAMDEB has been working with the Oranjemund Town Council to ensure the smooth handover of municipal infrastructure and services.

This is being done through the execution of a town transformation plan for Oranjemund that will facilitate the handover of land and property by early 2017.

The town transformation plan will set in motion the framework for an operational, self-funding and sustainable Oranjemund.

“We are receiving the necessary support from all stakeholders to fast-track the transformation process in a responsible and sustainable manner. The community is excited and is looking forward to the exciting developments and private property ownership in Oranjemund,” said Tony Bessinger, Namdeb’s head of town transformation and sustainability.

Bessinger said Namdeb will pass the responsibility for the town to the council and will assist the council to create an investor friendly environment that will pave the way for a sustainable existence of the town beyond diamond mining. Currently, Namdeb and the council are investigating terms of reference for a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) that will drive large-scale sustainability projects.

Focus areas include town development, accommodation, tourism, desert agriculture and manufacturing.

Namdeb’s general manager, Riaan Burger said it is important for Namdeb to continue contributing to Namibia’s economic growth by focusing on core mining activities while ensuring a sustainable future.

The town of Oranjemund is situated in a protected diamond mining area Tsau //Khaeb (Sperrgebiet) that is subject to the Diamond Act. The Local Authorities Act and legislation for the Ministry of Environment and Tourism equally apply due to the town’s location within a national park.

“In this regard, a task team was established to look at the practicalities of the access and the legal frameworks of the various ministries that are currently in place to see how a lasting solution can be found,” said Burger.