QKR Navachab Gold Mine has intensified its focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, with key initiatives such as the Golden Egg Project—supporting dozens of local entrepreneurs with up to N$100,000 in seed funding—and the Women Garden Project, which has empowered women-led agricultural ventures across Karibib and surrounding communities.
The Golden Egg Project, launched in partnership with Launch Namibia, targets aspiring business owners from Karibib, Usakos, and Otjimbingwe.
Shortlisted candidates undergo intensive training in finance, compliance, and entrepreneurship, after which selected winners receive seed capital and ongoing mentorship.
By 2024, the programme had disbursed N$2.5 million to ten SMEs in sectors such as agriculture, mechanical services, and food production.
The Karibib Women Garden Project offers microfinance and agricultural training to women—many of whom were previously unemployed—enabling them to establish sustainable garden plots that enhance local food security and generate income.
As of 2023, QKR Navachab had allocated approximately N$350,000 to support the garden project.
Community investment and social responsibility
Between 2021 and 2023, Navachab committed over N$500 million to corporate and community development initiatives.
In 2023 alone, more than N$429,000 was allocated to core programmes, including the Golden Egg Project, the Karibib Women Garden Project, support for the Namibian Police, and the purchase of medical equipment for the Karibib State Hospital.
A landmark pledge of N$15 million was made toward the construction of a new medical facility in Karibib.
This investment is complemented by a land donation from the Karibib Town Council valued at N$5 million, making it the company’s most significant single corporate social investment to date.
Since 2020, Navachab has invested nearly N$50 million in scholarships and bursaries for employees’ children, as well as providing broader educational support across the Erongo Region.
Key beneficiaries of the mine’s interventions include the towns of Karibib and Usakos, as well as neighbouring rural settlements.
Skills development and workforce safety
Navachab has also invested in training through internship and graduate programmes in mining engineering, metallurgy, and environmental science.
In 2023, the mine maintained a strong safety record, recording zero fatalities and just one lost-time injury under its ISO 45001:2018-certified SHEQ system.
Environmental improvements and technology upgrades
As part of its push for more sustainable mining practices, Navachab installed advanced multi-sensor KSS ore sorters from German manufacturer STEINERT in 2024. These upgrades have led to higher gold recovery rates while reducing water and energy consumption.
The mine is also working with Namibia’s Ministry of Environment to plan a third tailings storage facility (TSF3), signalling a long-term commitment to responsible waste management.
Financing and procurement
To support its expansion and ESG commitments, the mine secured a N$3 billion syndicated loan in mid-2024, earmarked to drive production toward a target of 150,000 ounces of gold per annum.
In 2023, Navachab’s procurement spending exceeded N$1.7 billion with Namibian suppliers, reinforcing its strategic role in national economic development.
Production outlook
Navachab remains on track to meet its annual production goal of 150,000 ounces. With a workforce exceeding 500 permanent and contract staff, the mine remains a cornerstone of social and economic progress in the Erongo Region.
