Okarikua Mining Kunene Region: Regulatory Concerns Over Testing Activities

• Okarikua Mining in Kunene region may be operating outside regulatory guidelines.
• Concerns raised about worker safety and welfare due to lack of PPE and ablution facilities.
• Lack of testing laboratories in Namibia hinders assessment of mineral quality and value.
• Government must strengthen oversight and enforcement measures to protect workers and preserve resources.

A mining operation in the Kunene region, Okarikua Mining at Ohungurume Village, has raised concerns about questionable testing activities that may be masking production. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources visited the site after community members and stakeholders expressed worries about worker safety and welfare. During the visit, committee members observed piles of copper-bearing rocks being taken for 'testing', but some workers claimed actual mining and production were underway. This ambiguity has sparked questions about whether Okarikua Mining is operating within regulatory guidelines.

Committee member Ester Haikola-Sakaria emphasized that worker safety should not be compromised, regardless of the operation's phase. She noted that employees lacked adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper ablution facilities, raising concerns about their exposure to health risks.

The Kunene region is rich in mineral resources, but it also faces challenges related to illegal and poorly regulated mining activities. The Ministry of Mines and Energy has a crucial role in monitoring and enforcing regulations. However, the committee's findings suggest that Okarikua Mining may be operating outside these guidelines, potentially undermining Namibia's ability to benefit from its natural resources. Lawyers advising clients involved in Kunene region mining activities should review the company's compliance with Namibian regulations.

Committee member Immanuel Nashinge criticized the lack of testing laboratories in Namibia, which hinders government and local miners' ability to assess mineral quality and value. He suggested that private-sector players could be brought on board to establish testing facilities and strengthen Namibia's capacity.

The situation at Okarikua Mining highlights the need for stronger oversight and enforcement measures in Namibia's mining sector. If left unchecked, poorly regulated mining activities could lead to worker health risks, environmental degradation, and a loss of benefits from the country's natural resources. The government must strengthen its monitoring role and ensure that companies comply with regulations to protect workers and preserve Namibia's mineral wealth.

Committee member Haikola-Sakaria warned that if the Ministry of Mines does not improve its oversight, Namibia could lose out on the benefits of its own resources. She emphasized that worker safety should be a top priority, regardless of whether an operation is in testing or production phase.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee's findings suggest that Okarikua Mining may be operating outside of regulatory guidelines, potentially exposing workers to health risks and undermining Namibia's ability to benefit from its natural resources. Lawyers advising clients involved in Kunene region mining activities should review the company's compliance with Namibian regulations and consider advocating for stronger oversight and enforcement measures.

Source: Original reporting via AllAfrica Namibia