Windhoek: Small-scale miners in Kunene have raised concerns over challenges surrounding Exclusive Prospecting Licences (EPLs), access to information, training, financing, and mineral prices. The miners voiced their concerns on Monday during an engagement with the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources, which is currently conducting an oversight visit to small-scale mining operations in the Kunene and Erongo regions.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Monicca Tjizembisa emphasized that small-scale mining is a crucial source of income for many people in Kunene, especially those in rural communities. However, local miners face constraints such as limited financial resources, lack of equipment, insufficient knowledge, and restricted access to information about formal mining and environmental regulatory processes. There is also a disparity in understanding between EPL holders and local miners regarding their respective rights, leaving small-scale miners without the financial means to pursue legal disputes. Tjizembisa noted that local miners feel excluded from mining activities due to EPL issues.

Another miner, Ueihanavi Tjihange, pointed out the high costs associated with obtaining Environmental Clearance Certificates, as applicants must pay significant amounts to individuals conducting assessments. Tjihange also highlighted the need for education on mineral prices, as miners often lack knowledge about the value of minerals such as copper. He urged the ministry to provide reliable price information to the miners.

Alphons Uarije advocated for education and safety training for small-scale miners, as well as mining agreements that would benefit entire communities through community ownership and shares in mining operations. Committee chairperson Tobie Aupindi acknowledged that the committee had identified serious concerns within the mining sector and assured that the issues raised by the small-scale miners would be documented and included in the committee's report.

Deputy Director of Mineral Rights in the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy, Abraham Iilende, stated that the ministry would take the miners' concerns into consideration. He confirmed that the request for education on small-scale mining had been recorded, and steps would be taken to address it. Iilende also encouraged miners to report any EPLs issued without the approval of traditional leaders so that the ministry can investigate these matters.