Windhoek: Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources, Tobie Aupindi, has expressed support for the Soris Soris community's call for the continuation of mining operations in the Uis area, saying mining and tourism can and should co-exist for the benefit of Namibians.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Aupindi spoke during the handover of a petition by members of the Soris Soris Conservancy at Parliament on Thursday. He emphasized that the mine in question represents a lifeline for the surrounding communities and the town of Uis. Aupindi stated, "We must be honest about what true economic growth and community empowerment mean. Mining and tourism can co-exist, and in fact, they can support and enhance one another," noting that similar co-existence already occurs in the Erongo and other regions.

The Swapo Party lawmaker criticized what he termed 'economic racism', arguing that opposition to the mine only arose after the ownership changed from white to black hands. He pointed out, "This mine has been in operation since the 1920s, and there was never an issue when it was white-owned. Yet suddenly, when a black-owned company takes over, it becomes a problem."

Aupindi further cautioned against non-state actors undermining state authority by challenging legitimate mining licenses issued by the government. There have been ongoing court battles over the Goantagab tin mine in the Kunene Region, with opponents arguing that its operations could disrupt tourism in the area, which is renowned as a sanctuary for black rhinos.

The Soris Soris community petitioned the National Assembly in support of mining activities in the Uis area. Reading out the petition, community representative Gwayneth //Garoes expressed the community's dismay over outsiders using local courts to advance their own interests without consulting the local community. She emphasized that the ongoing court case involving Ultimate Safaris, Doro Nawas Conservancy, and Uibasen Conservancy against the mining operators threatens to deprive the community of much-needed economic opportunities.

The community stressed that the disputed area falls within the Soris Soris Conservancy under the DSure Daman Traditional Authority, which supports the mining operations. They also noted that tourism operators from neighboring conservancies employ few locals and have rejected dialogue.