By Kaundjire Humbu
Navacab Gold Mine is preparing to expand its mining operations through underground mining, increased processing capacity and further exploration.
The mine receives water from the Swakoppoort Dam and has introduced measures to improve water efficiency as production increases.
These include water-saving tailings systems, pre-concentration technology and improvements in mineral processing.
The mine has also invested in additional water storage infrastructure to increase its water storage capacity.
Navachab continues to monitor water and air quality and has maintained environmental rehabilitation activities, including vegetation propagation, nursery management and tree planting.
The expansion comes amid water supply challenges in the Karibib area.

A pump failure at the Swakoppoort Dam disrupted water supplies to Karibib, Navachab Mine, the Karibib army base, Spes Bona and parts of Otjimbingwe.
NamWater subsequently called on affected users to conserve water while repairs were carried out.
Karibib is also experiencing increased mining activity, with gold, lithium, marble and other mineral projects operating or being developed.
Namibia is vulnerable to drought and extreme temperatures, while climate change is expected to place additional pressure on the country’s water resources.
Prolonged dry conditions can affect water availability and put pressure on infrastructure supplying households, agriculture and industries.
Navachab’s expansion includes underground mining, with development focused on mineralised zones beneath and around its existing operation.

Further exploration is planned as the underground operation develops, while mine’s life has been extended into the future.
Navachab has upgraded its electricity supply capacity and is progressing a photovoltaic solar feasibility study as part of its longer-term energy plans.
The mine’s environmental measures include water storage, processing efficiency, environmental monitoring and renewable energy planning.
The ministry of environment, forestry and tourism is reviewing Namibia’s National Policy on Climate Change and updating the country’s Third Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement.
The review comes as Namibia continues to address drought, extreme temperatures, land degradation and water scarcity.
Mining activity is also expanding around Karibib, with several mineral projects operating or under development.
Water availability, environmental monitoring and resource management remain part of the environmental considerations surrounding mining operations in the area.

The expansion is taking place as water access remains a concern in communities around Karibib.
Residents of Neu Schwaben, on the outskirts of the town, have reported difficulties accessing clean water, while the area continues to attract new mining developments.
The water supply interruptions affecting Karibib and Navachab have also highlighted the importance of reliable water infrastructure as mining operations expand.
Navachab’s continued development will therefore take place alongside ongoing efforts to maintain water supplies for users in the area.
