Opuwo:The inaugural Kunene Regional Mining Summit commenced in Opuwo on Wednesday, aiming to convert the region's mineral potential into jobs, investment, skills development, and economic opportunities for local communities.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the three-day summit operates under the theme 'Fostering an Enabling Environment for Sustainable Mining and Inclusive Economic Growth.' It gathers government officials, traditional leaders, mining companies, small-scale miners, investors, communities, and other stakeholders to address challenges and identify practical solutions for sustainable mining development in the region.

Kunene Governor Vipuakuje Muharukua highlighted the significant mineral potential of the region, which includes industrial minerals, gemstones, and dimension stone. He emphasized that mineral prospects and licenses need to lead to responsible production, local value addition, and tangible community benefits to improve people's lives. "The wealth beneath our soil must translate into livelihoods above the ground," Muharukua stated.

Opuwo Mayor Kasipo Kakondo stressed the importance of turning Kunene's mineral wealth into opportunities for employment, skills development, investment, and local value addition. He noted that the discussion is about creating opportunities for jobs, skills, innovation, and investment to enhance the lives of local communities.

Kakondo announced the Opuwo Town Council's partnership with the National Commission on Research, Science and Technology to establish the Opuwo Innovation Mining Hub Centre. The proposed hub aims to integrate mining, innovation, skills development, and entrepreneurship, offering facilities for mineral testing and processing. This initiative could allow small-scale miners and entrepreneurs to test, cut, and polish minerals and gemstones locally, while equipping young people with practical skills.

Governor Muharukua pointed out challenges such as drought, long distances, and poor infrastructure, which drive up the cost of doing business in Kunene. He advocated for mining-related infrastructure to be integrated into broader regional development plans and called for meaningful consultation with traditional authorities, conservancies, farmers, pastoralists, and communities affected by mining activities.

The summit, hosted in collaboration with Epangelo Mining Company, will conclude on Friday, with participants expected to adopt a communiqué outlining proposed actions, responsible institutions, and the way forward.