MIME Engages at African IAEG Conference on Abandoned Mines and Geology

MIME Engages at African IAEG Conference on Abandoned Mines and Geology. The Ministry of Mines and Energy (MIME) participated in the 4th African Regional IAEG Conference, held from 8–10 September 2025 in Windhoek, where pressing issues around geology, hydrogeology, and mine safety were discussed.

Geological experts from the Geological Survey of Namibia, a department within the Ministry, delivered a keynote presentation on the Geology and Engineering/Hydrogeology of Windhoek, alongside a detailed assessment of abandoned mines in Namibia.

The assessment highlighted over 150 abandoned mining sites, some dating back more than a century. These sites pose ongoing environmental and health concerns, particularly where communities live near old operations. One example raised was the Oamites site, where dust linked to historical mining activity has been associated with respiratory issues in surrounding settlements.

To address such risks, the Ministry has taken proactive measures by integrating Mine Closure provisions into the upcoming Minerals Bill, ensuring future mining operations are required to close responsibly and safeguard both communities and the environment.

The three-day conference served as a platform for experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to share research and strategies on engineering geology across Africa and globally. Discussions spanned risk management, hydrogeology, and best practices for sustainable mineral resource development.