Chamwe Kaira
The global uranium market outlook remains firm as demand for nuclear energy rises due to energy security concerns and growing electrification.
Utilities are seeking secure uranium supplies from Western-aligned countries amid supply constraints caused by years of underinvestment.
This is based on the Langer Heinrich Mine investor report released by Paladin Energy.
In Namibia, Paladin Energy’s Langer Heinrich Mine is ramping up towards full mining and processing operations. The mine produced 2.3 million pounds of U₃O₈ during the first half of the 2026 financial year.
Full-year production for FY2026 is expected to reach the upper end of the company’s guidance range of between 4 million and 4.4 million pounds of U₃O₈.
Since restarting operations, the company has upgraded water infrastructure at the mine to strengthen supply security.
Langer Heinrich sources water from NamWater, groundwater from the Swakop River and on-site storage through two water bladders and an open pond. Upgrades include increased NamWater pipeline capacity, long-term supply agreements, improved Swakop River extraction systems, a higher abstraction permit and expanded on-site storage. The company said it remains committed to responsible water use and long-term sustainability.
Namibia remains one of the world’s key uranium producers. The country hosts three large uranium mines: Langer Heinrich, Rössing and Husab. Namibia is the world’s third-largest uranium producer and accounts for about 12% of global output. Uranium exports contributed about 15.8% of Namibia’s 2024 gross domestic product from primary industries.
The sector benefits from government and community support and established infrastructure such as ports, roads, rail, power and water, with close access to the Walvis Bay industrial hub.
Power supply to Langer Heinrich is provided through a 66 kV line from the Kuiseb substation. Six emergency generators can carry the full site load if needed. Namibia is part of the Southern African Power Pool, which includes 12 national electricity utilities.
The country has maintained a reliable power supply and has reformed its electricity market to allow independent power producers. Grid upgrades are under way to support rising demand and new energy sources.
Namibia’s grid emissions factor remains below global averages due to low-carbon and renewable energy contributions.
Uranium produced at Langer Heinrich is transported in line with International Atomic Energy Agency regulations and national and international safety standards. Shipments are exported through the Port of Walvis Bay.
