The issuance of an Environmental Clearance Certificate for the proposed Sandpiper Marine Phosphate Project has sparked strong reactions among residents, fishing industry stakeholders and environmental campaigners in Namibia.
The certificate, issued by the Office of the Environmental Commissioner on 5 August 2026, allows Namibian Marine Phosphate (Pty) Ltd to undertake the listed activities associated with the proposed project within Mining Licence 170 offshore Namibia. It is valid until 5 August 2029.
Following the announcement, concerns have resurfaced over the potential impact of marine phosphate extraction on Namibia’s fishing industry, marine ecosystems and coastal tourism. Some members of the public questioned why the project has now received environmental clearance after years of opposition and debate surrounding the proposed mining activities. Others called for greater transparency regarding the environmental assessment process and urged government to explain what safeguards will be implemented to protect marine resources.
Fishing industry voices have particularly raised concerns about the possible implications for employment and livelihoods, with calls for scientific evidence and expert assessments to be made publicly available.
However, several of the comments circulating on social media also contain unverified allegations of corruption, political interference and conflicts of interest. No evidence supporting those allegations was provided in the public comments reviewed.
Supporters of the project have argued that extensive scientific and environmental assessments are necessary to determine whether marine phosphate extraction can be conducted responsibly and safely.
The debate highlights the need for transparent public consultation, independent scientific input and clear communication from authorities and the project developers regarding the environmental conditions attached to the clearance.
As Namibia weighs the economic potential of offshore mineral resources against the protection of its marine environment and fishing economy, the Sandpiper project is likely to remain a highly contested national issue.
By Rudi Bowe
