Niël Terblanché
Concerns have again been raised over the potential threat to underground water supply, as key discussions on the proposed in situ leach uranium mining in the Stampriet Artesian Basin (SAB) were removed from the agenda at the recent Namibia Regional Water Symposium in Keetmanshoop.
The SAB is a water source for towns such as Leonardville, Aranos, Aminuis, Stampriet, Gochas, and Koës in the Hardap region.
It also serves as a water supply for farming communities and large-scale irrigation projects that contribute to national food security.
Recognising its importance, the government has designated the SAB as a legislated Water Protection Area.
However, concerns have been growing over plans to extract uranium using in situ leach mining, a process that could contaminate these precious underground aquifers.
The Southern African Institute for Environmental Assessment (SAUMA) has repeatedly warned of the significant risks such mining poses, yet their calls for transparency and public engagement have gone largely unanswered.
At the recent water symposium, attempts to discuss the issue were shut down, leaving many delegates frustrated.
“People attending the conference repeatedly expressed their disapproval, but the subject was not allowed for discussion. Why was the topic removed?” SAUMA representatives asked.
For more than three years, SAUMA has been calling on the government to provide clarity on the risks associated with uranium mining in the SAB.
Yet, written queries and appeals against previously issued Environmental Clearance Certificates have gone unanswered by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.
In a high-level meeting held near Mariental on 17 June 2024, international experts compiled reports on the potential impact of uranium mining in the SAB.
However, despite multiple requests, these reports have not been made available to SAUMA.
“According to the Environmental Commissioner, more studies should be undertaken to understand the implications of mining. What studies have been undertaken? What are the results of these?” SAUMA asked.
Further concerns arise from an interministerial committee initiated by Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila to assess the proposed mining and present recommendations to Cabinet.
The findings of this committee remain undisclosed. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources has also met with SAUMA and the mining company Headspring Investments on multiple occasions.
“Yet, there has been no confirmation as to whether the committee has submitted its findings or what conclusions were reached,” SAUMA said.
The SAB extends into Botswana and South Africa, where the same aquifers provide drinking water to thousands.
Both countries have raised serious concerns about the implications of uranium mining in Namibia, fearing cross-border contamination of water sources.
SAUMA is now calling on the Namibian government to provide answers and engage in transparent discussions on the future of the SAB.
“The responsibility for the safety of drinking water does not lie just with concerned individuals, farmers, and organisations. It primarily lies with those who make and administer legislation,” they stated.
