Swakopmund:The Erongo Regional Council (ERC) has urged mining companies operating in the region to coordinate their community development efforts with the council and constituency councillors. This call aims to ensure that investments effectively address the most pressing needs of local communities.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Lazarus Kanelombe, chairperson of the ERC, emphasized the importance of development interventions being guided by consultations with local leadership to avoid duplication and ensure resources reach communities with the greatest needs. He acknowledged the mining industry's contributions to the regional economy and employment but stressed the need for partnerships between the government and private sector to result in tangible improvements in people's livelihoods.

Kanelombe also introduced the council's proposed Erongo Development Programme, a new funding mechanism designed to mobilize resources from the private sector and other stakeholders to support regional development priorities. This programme is expected to replace the defunct Erongo Development Fund and support projects in education, healthcare, water infrastructure, economic empowerment, and housing.

Uis constituency councillor Inecia Brandt commended the mining sector's contributions but highlighted the necessity for constituency councillors to be informed about activities and development projects within their jurisdictions. She pointed out ongoing water shortages due to damaged pipelines, despite investments in water infrastructure, urging mining companies to involve local leadership in identifying and prioritizing immediate community needs.

Similarly, Omaruru constituency councillor Hendrina Gerbhardt warned that the lack of communication between mining companies and local leaders could create tensions within communities, especially concerning employment opportunities and the distribution of corporate support.

Additionally, Eugene Nel, project director at Hope and Gorob Mine, expressed concerns about electricity supply, noting that lengthy processes for obtaining electricity generation licenses could hinder efforts to generate additional power and alleviate pressure on the existing supply system.

In response, Kanelombe assured mining companies that the ERC would facilitate engagements with relevant authorities whenever regional intervention is needed.