Otjimbingwe Primary School’s learning environment has received a boost through infrastructure improvements and environmental initiatives handed over by Rössing Uranium in collaboration with the Namibian Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT), KNeumayer Construction and Boost Branding.
The handover took place in commemoration of Arbor Day and included cement tables and chairs, fruit and shade trees, two water tanks, classroom and hostel enhancements, recycling facilities and succulent plants aimed at creating a more welcoming and sustainable environment for learners. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Rössing Uranium’s manager of corporate communications, Daylight Ekandjo, said the initiative went beyond infrastructure improvements and highlighted the importance of partnerships in supporting education. “What brings us here is not simply about infrastructure, it is about partnership, dignity, and investing in the future of our children,” Ekandjo said.
The value of Rössing Uranium’s combined support amounted to N$300 000 and included cement tables and chairs, fire training and firefighting equipment, as well as two 10 000-litre water tanks. The cement tables and chairs were constructed through NIMT and artisans from the Rössing-supported Youth Incubation Centre (YIC) in Arandis, providing durable facilities for learners. NIMT, through its YIC, also contributed planters made from recycled pallets, covering the labour and consumables required for their construction, as well as four waste-recycling drums.
KNeumayer Construction supported the project by donating the transport required to deliver 10 tonnes of cement from Karibib to the school. Swakopmund-based Boost Branding also contributed to improving the school environment by sponsoring inspirational messages and familiar cartoon characters displayed in classrooms, dormitories and the dining hall. The company provided branding for an old Rössing Uranium Limited (RUL) sign, inspirational affirmation quotes for classrooms, and recycled vinyl offcuts to decorate stationery holders, which were themselves made from recycled waste. These contributions aim to encourage confidence, kindness and a sense of belonging among learners while promoting creative reuse of materials.
Environmental sustainability also formed part of the project. Rössing Uranium provided fruit trees for the school and hostel vegetable gardens, while shade trees were planted to mark Arbor Day. These efforts are intended to promote environmental awareness, food production and practical learning opportunities. Two water tanks were also handed over to the school and hostel to improve water availability and support daily operations, hygiene and learners’ wellbeing. Fire training and firefighting equipment formed part of the broader support package. In addition, a member of Rössing Uranium’s Lived Legacy team donated succulents, trees, compost and shovels valued at N$3 800. The succulents were intended for the classrooms, adding greenery to the learning spaces while highlighting the importance of plants that can adapt to Namibia’s challenging climatic conditions. Ekandjo said the initiative demonstrated what could be achieved when businesses, educational institutions and communities worked towards a shared goal. “This handover reflects what is possible when we work together, a mining company, contractor companies attached to it, a school, and a community united by a shared goal: to create better opportunities for our children,” she said.
She encouraged learners to take ownership of the facilities and resources provided, while acknowledging the school leadership and community for their continued dedication to education. The project forms part of Rössing Uranium’s broader efforts to support education, environmental sustainability and community development in Namibia, with contributions from partner organisations and individuals helping to extend its impact beyond infrastructure improvements.
By Sharlien Tjambari
