Minister of Industries Mines and Energy Modestus Amutse has challenged major mining companies and businesses operating in Namibia to ensure that local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) benefit directly from the economic opportunities generated in their communities.
Speaking at the official inauguration of the N$12.65 million Usakos SME Business Park on Thursday, Amutse said mining investment must translate into meaningful opportunities for local entrepreneurs through supplier development, fair procurement practices and sustainable business partnerships.
He called on Navachab Gold Mine and other major companies to strengthen their supplier development programmes by sharing procurement requirements, helping emerging businesses meet quality standards and giving local enterprises a fair opportunity to compete for contracts.
The minister highlighted access to working capital as one of the major challenges facing small businesses, particularly when payments for completed work are delayed.
He urged major companies to honour payment agreements and pay suppliers on time, enabling small businesses to purchase materials, pay employees and remain financially sustainable.
Amutse said entrepreneurs in Usakos should position themselves to benefit from opportunities in the mining, transport, construction and tourism sectors across the Erongo Region.
Beyond business infrastructure, Amutse emphasised that reliable electricity is essential for economic growth, particularly for small enterprises operating machinery, refrigeration equipment and workshops. He announced that the Ministry had budgeted N$28 million for the 2026/27 electrification programme in the Erongo Region, with a further N$5 million proposed by Erongo RED.
According to the minister, 131 households in Saamstan, Usakos, have already been connected through cooperation between the Ministry and Erongo RED, while completed electrification work has also been reported in Ongulumbashe.
In Karibib, two electrification phases have brought electricity to 257 households in Usab.
Further phases are planned in Usakos and Karibib, including an additional 150 household connections in Saamstan. Other projects are earmarked for Omaruru, Arandis, Omatjete and Otjimbingwe.
He commended Navachab Gold Mine for contributing to the electrification of Usab, saying the mine’s involvement in community infrastructure and the SME Park demonstrates how mining companies can reinvest in the communities where they operate.
With mining, construction, transport and tourism driving significant economic activity in Erongo, the minister said local businesses must be equipped to participate in these opportunities rather than remain on the sidelines. Photo: Navachab Gold Mine
By Rudi Bowe
