Navachab extends life of operations
Tripples gold production
QKR Navachab Gold Mine has extended its life of mine by three years.
The mine’s managing director, George Botshiwe, announced at two of its corporate social investment events at Otjimbingwe and Karibib last week, that the mine’s board of directors recently approved the extension, pushing mining operations from 2033 to 2036, and processing operations from 2042 to 2045. This decision comes on the back of substantial investment in exploration and technology aimed at sustaining and enhancing production capacity.
“We have big expansion plans with over N$200 million injected into service exploration and over U$30 million (N$545 million) into underground exploration since November last year. This is just the beginning,” he said.
Navachab Gold Mine has experienced growth over the years, with 2024 marking a record gold production of nearly 130 000 ounces - almost three times the production level of less than four years ago. The mine has also invested more than N$3.5 billion into its operations, a move that has led to increased efficiency and output. Employment figures have also surged, with the workforce growing from 600 to over 1 200 employees, 70% of whom are from Karibib, Usakos, and Otjimbingwe.
“Since the beginning of last year, we have contributed over N$1 billion to government in corporate tax, royalties and dividends,” Botshiwe stated, adding that the company has become one of the country’s leading taxpayers.
Botshiwe merited the growth to “the dedication” of Navachab’s workforce and strategic investments in modern mining equipment, a new processing plant, and pioneering exploration techniques.
“The diligence and commitment of our staff have allowed Navachab to transition from a loss-making company on the verge of collapse to one of the best-performing mines in Namibia,” he said.
Beyond mining operations, Navachab remains committed to community development. During the CSI event, the company inaugurated a new mortuary valued at N$4.5 million and broke ground for a N$20 million medical centre.
“As we progress, we don’t want to leave our communities behind. We believe that the communities must be better off because of our presence, and the exploration of this finite natural resource must leave a lasting legacy,” Botshiwe said.
Navachab’s performance reports are expected to be released soon.
The mine’s managing director, George Botshiwe, announced at two of its corporate social investment events at Otjimbingwe and Karibib last week, that the mine’s board of directors recently approved the extension, pushing mining operations from 2033 to 2036, and processing operations from 2042 to 2045. This decision comes on the back of substantial investment in exploration and technology aimed at sustaining and enhancing production capacity.
“We have big expansion plans with over N$200 million injected into service exploration and over U$30 million (N$545 million) into underground exploration since November last year. This is just the beginning,” he said.
Navachab Gold Mine has experienced growth over the years, with 2024 marking a record gold production of nearly 130 000 ounces - almost three times the production level of less than four years ago. The mine has also invested more than N$3.5 billion into its operations, a move that has led to increased efficiency and output. Employment figures have also surged, with the workforce growing from 600 to over 1 200 employees, 70% of whom are from Karibib, Usakos, and Otjimbingwe.
“Since the beginning of last year, we have contributed over N$1 billion to government in corporate tax, royalties and dividends,” Botshiwe stated, adding that the company has become one of the country’s leading taxpayers.
Botshiwe merited the growth to “the dedication” of Navachab’s workforce and strategic investments in modern mining equipment, a new processing plant, and pioneering exploration techniques.
“The diligence and commitment of our staff have allowed Navachab to transition from a loss-making company on the verge of collapse to one of the best-performing mines in Namibia,” he said.
Beyond mining operations, Navachab remains committed to community development. During the CSI event, the company inaugurated a new mortuary valued at N$4.5 million and broke ground for a N$20 million medical centre.
“As we progress, we don’t want to leave our communities behind. We believe that the communities must be better off because of our presence, and the exploration of this finite natural resource must leave a lasting legacy,” Botshiwe said.
Navachab’s performance reports are expected to be released soon.
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