Windhoek: Erongo Governor Nathalia /Goagoses has called for stronger participation of local businesses, communities, and regional leadership in major mining developments, emphasizing that sustainable growth must benefit ordinary Namibians. /Goagoses made this appeal during the launch of Swakop Uranium's 2025 Sustainability Report in Windhoek on Tuesday.

According to Namibia Press Agency, /Goagoses emphasized the need for mining projects to create opportunities for local enterprises while supporting education, employment, and community development. "We want investment, we want decent jobs, we want skills, and we want sustainable opportunities for local businesses," /Goagoses stated.

The governor highlighted that mining operations create opportunities for service providers, transport companies, artisans, engineers, and small businesses. She noted, "When local businesses are empowered and held to high standards, they grow. And when they grow, they create not only jobs, but decent jobs."

Swakop Uranium Chief Executive Officer Luo Wei acknowledged the contributions of the Husab Mine to Namibia over the past decade. These contributions include production, employment, local procurement, taxes and royalties, skills development, supply chain growth, and community investment. "These achievements were made possible through the support of Government, the guidance of our Board and shareholders, the dedication of our employees, the commitment of our business partners, and the trust of the communities around us," he remarked.

Luo described the sustainability report as a measure of the company's accountability and commitment to responsible mining. "This Sustainability Report is a record of our accountability, showing what we have done, where we have improved, and where we must continue to do better," he said.

Governor /Goagoses also stressed the importance of environmental responsibility, particularly in the water-scarce Erongo Region. "We expect all companies to uphold high standards in water management, waste control, rehabilitation, biodiversity protection, and environmental monitoring," she emphasized.

Furthermore, she called on mining companies to work closely with regional authorities, stating, "I am calling upon all operators to kindly work with the regional leadership so that we can serve as ambassadors for your issues with central government."

/Goagoses welcomed Swakop Uranium's Husab+ vision but expressed that its success should be measured through tangible improvements in skills development, local business growth, and stronger communities.