By 2030, five uranium mines—Husab, Rössing, Langer Heinrich, Etango, and Norasa—are expected to be operational, backed by more than US$3 billion in combined investment.
Namibia is poised to become a global uranium powerhouse, with several more projects also progressing through critical development stages.
Under the NDP6, the country is transitioning from a raw material exporter to a strategic player in the nuclear value chain.
Significant investments, construction milestones, and policy reforms are in motion to support this evolution.
Husab Mine – the giant in whole operation
Husab Mine, Namibia’s largest uranium project, has been operational since 2016. Owned 90% by China General Nuclear (CGN) and 10% by Epangelo Mining, it ranks among the world’s top ten uranium producers.
With an initial investment exceeding US$2 billion, it was the most significant Chinese investment in Africa at the time.
In 2022 alone, Husab contributed over N$4.1 billion to Namibia’s economy, with 70% of procurement sourced locally.
It supplies uranium directly to China’s reactor fleet, cementing its role as a cornerstone of the global nuclear energy supply chain.
Rössing Uranium – extending legacy into the future
Rössing, one of the world’s oldest uranium mines, began operations in 1976.
Now owned by China National Uranium Corporation (CNUC), it has received regulatory approval to continue operations until 2036.
More than US$110 million has been invested to sustain operations.
Ongoing capital projects include expanding tailings facilities, introducing a 15 MW solar PV plant, and updating contract mining arrangements.
Rössing remains a key source of technical expertise and revenue for Namibia’s uranium industry.
Langer Heinrich – back from care and maintenance
Langer Heinrich, owned 75% by Paladin Energy and 25% by CNNC, resumed production in March 2024 after being placed on care and maintenance in 2018 due to low uranium prices.
The restart involved a US$140 million capital investment raised through an institutional placement.
As of Q1 2025, it delivered 745,000 pounds of U₃O₈, with full ramp-up expected into 2026. Paladin aims to position the mine as a reliable mid-tier uranium producer.
Etango Project – construction-ready and fully funded
Bannerman Energy’s Etango project is the most advanced new uranium development in Namibia.
Having secured a mining licence in December 2023, Bannerman completed its Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) and confirmed a pre-production capital requirement of US$353.5 million.
It raised A$85 million (approximately US$55 million) to fund early construction and infrastructure. Etango targets first production between 2027 and 2028, aiming to produce 3.5 million pounds of uranium annually.
Norasa Project – permitted and progressing Forsys
Metals’ Norasa Project, comprising the Valencia and Namibplaas deposits, holds a 25-year mining licence and is progressing through the feasibility stage.
A definitive feasibility study confirmed a capital investment estimate of US$432.8 million.
In early 2025, Forsys raised C$5 million (~US$3.8 million) to fund further drilling and technical planning. Norasa could enter production later in the decade, potentially contributing another 5 million pounds of U₃O₈ per year.
A broader strategic vision In 2023, Namibia’s uranium sector generated N$15.53 billion in turnover, with N$10.27 billion going into local salaries, procurement, and royalties, supporting over 6,400 direct jobs.
Under NDP6, the focus is expanding to value-added activities like uranium conversion and enrichment, with the potential to generate up to N$20 billion more in economic activity.
The establishment of the Nuclear Institute of Namibia and reforms to the Atomic Energy and Radiation Protection Act are preparing the country for participation in advanced stages of the nuclear fuel cycle.
A Human Resource Plan aims to train at least 100 nuclear science specialists by 2030, supported by partnerships with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and local academic institutions.
Namibia’s evolving uranium landscape reflects global energy trends and a national commitment to economic diversification, technological advancement, and industrial resilience.
Through bold investments, strategic planning, and international cooperation, the country is carving out a sustainable and influential role in the global nuclear future.
