Otjiwarongo: The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has convened a stakeholder consultative meeting to formulate new regulations on sand and gravel mining management at Otjiwarongo in the Otjozondjupa Region.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the one-day meeting was attended by over 60 business owners and traditional authority members involved in the commercial activities of sand and gravel mining. The discussions focused on the government's proposed amendments to the Sand and Gravel Mining Regulations and the Environmental Management Act No. 7 of 2007.
The Deputy Environmental Commissioner, Caroline Garus-Oas, stated that the Amendment Bill consultations are being conducted nationwide to gather the views and opinions of those affected by and benefiting from sand and gravel mining. "The general motive of the regulations on this matter is to protect and safeguard the environment, water, aquaculture, and other natural resources dependent on the land. We are here to discuss your current situations so that the bill can also speak to us with the current situations you are facing in your areas," she said.
Garus-Oas emphasized the necessity of these consultations due to the existing gaps identified by the ministry during implementation stages and the practical reality on the ground. She noted that the current Act has not facilitated effective issuance of fines and penalties, leading to prolonged legal processes. Stakeholders present were encouraged to suggest solutions and share their observations and experiences related to sand and gravel mining activities in their localities.
Otjozondjupa Governor John //Khamuseb, in a speech read on his behalf, highlighted the importance of discussions on sand and gravel mining to ensure environmental protection while supporting local economic development. He urged participants to engage actively in the discussions based on their community experiences.
The meeting also saw attendance from Otjiwarongo Municipality officials and other senior government regional officials.