14/07/2026
There is a growing challenge in the Opuwo and Otwani areas that deserves serious attention.
Many small-scale miners and local communities work incredibly hard to extract copper ore using basic tools, often under difficult conditions. Yet, instead of seeing sustainable development in the region, much of this ore is being purchased at very low prices by traders who transport it elsewhere for stockpiling or resale.
This creates several problems:
• Small-scale miners remain trapped in a cycle of selling cheaply just to meet immediate needs.
• Local communities receive little long-term economic benefit from the minerals beneath their land.
• It becomes difficult for organised local initiatives to build sufficient stockpiles that could support value addition and industrial development within the region.
• Jobs, skills development, and downstream opportunities are lost.
Another concern that is frequently raised in the region is the apparent lack of transparency around how some copper ore leaves these areas. There are concerns that, in some cases, ore may be exported under permits that do not accurately reflect its origin, making it more difficult to trace where the material was mined and to ensure that local communities receive the full benefits of their resources. These concerns deserve appropriate attention from the relevant authorities.
What is equally disappointing is that many of those buying the ore are not investing in the development of these communities. Rather than providing equipment, technical support, training, or helping small-scale miners increase production safely and responsibly, the focus is often simply on purchasing ore that has already been mined and moving it elsewhere for stockpiling.
This is something we witness regularly during our field engagements, and many local miners share the same frustrations. It is a conversation that can no longer be ignored.
Namibia has repeatedly highlighted the importance of mineral beneficiation and local value addition. This is exactly why ABMOGN Mineral Explorations and Consultations CC is advancing the proposed copper processing plant in Otwani, Kunene Region.
Our vision is not simply to buy ore. It is to create a sustainable local market where small-scale miners and claim holders have a reliable buyer, receive fair value for their production, and benefit from processing taking place closer to the source. A local processing plant would stimulate employment, encourage responsible mining, strengthen local supply chains, and keep more value within the region.
The minerals beneath our soil should create opportunities where they are found. We must move beyond simply extracting and transporting raw materials and instead invest in beneficiation, responsible mining, and community development that leaves a lasting legacy.
It is time for industry, government, communities, and investors to work together to ensure Namibia’s mineral wealth delivers lasting value for the people who live where these resources are found.
