Chamwe Kaira
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will compile its findings and submit recommendations to the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism following a technical review of the proposed Stampriet uranium in situ leaching (ISL) test mining project in the Omaheke region.
The review focuses on an application for an environmental clearance certificate submitted by Headspring Investments. The application covers a four-year test mining phase using ISL technology.
Environmental commissioner Timoteus Mufeti convened the engagement as part of the ongoing assessment. A final decision is expected by June 2026.
An IAEA delegation of six representatives visited Namibia from 9 to 13 February 2026 to conduct the review. The Ministry said the mission aims to support evidence-based decision-making.
The delegation examined issues related to environmental protection, groundwater management, public health and regulatory compliance. It met with the Ministry of Health and Social Services, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, and the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy. The team also engaged the prime minister, the governor of the Omaheke Region, affected farmers and community members. The programme included a site visit to the proposed mining area.
The proposed ISL method involves injecting chemical solutions into underground formations to dissolve uranium. The dissolved uranium is then pumped to the surface for processing. The test site lies within the Stampriet Transboundary Aquifer System, which supplies groundwater to parts of Namibia and extends into Botswana and South Africa.
The Stampriet Aquifer Uranium Mining Association (Sauma) has opposed the test mining project. The association raised concerns about groundwater contamination and long-term environmental risks in a country that depends heavily on underground water.
Sauma said its experts and management committee presented evidence-based concerns during the meeting. The association called for a comprehensive independent hydrogeological study of the transboundary aquifer before any test mining or uranium extraction proceeds.
The IAEA will now prepare its report for submission to MEFT, which will inform the environmental commissioner’s final decision.
