NAMIBIA is endeavouring to rejuvenate its copper industry in response to surging global demand, a move underscored by renewed mining projects and exploration efforts. Despite challenges, industry players express optimism about Namibia’s potential in the evolving copper market.
John Sisay, CEO of Namibian mining company Ongopolo, believes Namibia holds significant copper resources yet to be fully tapped. He explains, ‘Copper is a historic resource in Namibia… but it hasn’t grown as much as somewhere like Zambia or Botswana. I think the main reason it hasn’t grown is a lack of exploration.’
Past challenges, such as water management issues causing mine flooding, have hindered Namibia’s copper production. However, mining operators are breathing new life into old mines, leveraging existing infrastructure to accelerate production. Trigon Metals’ Kombat copper project and Deep South Resources’ mining licence reinstatement signify a resurgence in Namibia’s copper industry.
David Kurtz, director of research & analysis for mining and energy at GlobalData, acknowledges Namibia’s minor status in African copper production and the hurdles it faces in attracting investment. He notes, ‘There are only a few projects with the potential to add to its output by the end of the decade.’
Despite challenges, mining operators like Ongopolo remain bullish on Namibia’s prospects. Sisay sees the clean energy transition as an opportunity for African nations like Namibia to maximize the value of their mining resources. He remarks, ‘There is plenty of copper out there. It is just going to take a while to bring it to market.’
As Namibia charts its course in the global copper landscape, uncertainties persist, but the country remains optimistic about its potential contribution to the clean energy transition and the broader copper market.