Modernising Namibian mining
Mark Twain famously said: During the gold rush it’s a good time to be in the pick and shovel business”. The mining, minerals and metals sector has certainly moved on from just picks and shovels, and with that, countries like Namibia are quickly becoming the next destination for the proverbial gold rush.According to the Chamber of Mines in Namibia, mining accounted for 14.4% of the country’s GDP in 2023, an increase from 9% in 2021 and 11.9 % in 2022. The sector therefore plays a fundamental role in Namibia’s job and wealth creation, showing consistent steady growth. The chamber also cited that the top-performing commodities for minerals mined in Namibia were gold and uranium. Year-on-year, the average gold price increased by 8% from 2022 to 2023, while the uranium price rose from just over U$50/lb in January 2023 to U$90/lb at the end of the year.
Modernising mining
To keep on trend with the mining, minerals and metals segment’s global move towards modernisation, Namibian mines are starting to implement automation and digitisation as part of their operations.
One of the major modernisation drivers for Namibian mining is the need for real-time data, efficiency and safety. The real-time data generated by automated systems readily identify problems while optimising operations for maximum efficiency - decisions are based on accurate, up-to-date information.
For instance, in some mines, the transition from manual data entry to automated systems has significantly reduced the time employees spend on data collection, allowing them to engage in more value-added activities.
Namibian mining stands to benefit from the following when embarking on their modernisation journeys:
• Improved efficiency and productivity - real-time data collection and analysis enable more informed decision-making at all levels. From top management to on-site workers, everyone benefits from having accurate data at their fingertips
• Enhanced safety - reducing the need for manual intervention in hazardous environments, automation improves worker safety. Robotic systems and automated machinery can perform dangerous tasks, minimising the risk to human workers.
• Cost savings - automation reduces operational costs by minimising errors, optimising resource use, and increasing the lifespan of mining equipment through predictive maintenance.
• Modern technologies support sustainable mining practices. Automated systems can monitor environmental impact more effectively, ensuring compliance with regulations and reducing the ecological footprint of mining operations.
A realistic take
While the benefits of automation and digitisation are clear, the transition is not without challenges. Change is never easy, especially amongst older employees who may be less familiar with new technologies.
That said, younger, tech-savvy workers can bridge the gap, working together with their older, experienced peers to take mines one step closer to a modernised posture.
Automated systems also require an initial upfront investment, and whilst the long-term savings are tangible and benchmarked, these costs can deter some mining operations. It is here where partnerships with technology providers like Schneider Electric can be invaluable, working together with mines to provide scalable solutions that are realistically aligned with allocated budgets.
The future of Namibia's mining sector looks promising. As more mines adopt automation and digitisation technologies, the industry will likely see further increased efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Additionally, the growth of local distributors, system integrators, and panel builders will further strengthen the sector, creating a strong ecosystem for continuous innovation and improvement.
* Casper Labuschagne is the country sales manager of Schneider Electric Namibia.
** Opinion pieces and letters by the public do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial team. The editors reserve the right to abridge original texts. All newspapers of Namibia Media Holdings adhere to the Code of Ethics for Namibian Media, a code established jointly with the Media Ombudsman.