Navachab Gold Mine is funding the N$10 million development of the Usakos SME Park as part of a deliberate strategy to reinvest Namibia’s natural resources back into the communities that host the mine. The commitment was outlined by QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine managing director George Botshiwe during the groundbreaking and site handover ceremony held in Usakos on 20 November 2025.
Botshiwe told Minister of International Relations and Trade Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Erongo Governor Natalia /Goagoses, local authority leaders, traditional authorities and community members that the investment is not ceremonial, but a concrete pledge to support national development goals through targeted, sustainable community projects.
He said Navachab views itself as a custodian of a national resource, and that its responsibility extends beyond extracting gold to ensuring that mining revenue translates into visible, meaningful improvements in livelihoods.
The company’s approach, he said, aligns with Namibia’s development agenda, focusing on infrastructure development, entrepreneurship and job creation, education and training, and health, safety and security.
Botshiwe explained that the decision to invest heavily in Usakos followed structured engagements with the Usakos Town Council and an assessment of its five-year strategic plan. Those discussions highlighted a town with significant potential and precise development needs. “Usakos is not just a transit point; it is a town of opportunity,” he said.
The Usakos SME Park, valued at N$10 million, speaks directly to the mine’s entrepreneurship and job creation pillars. Botshiwe said the facility will bring order, dignity and structure to local businesses, stimulate innovation, attract investment and position Usakos as a productive and attractive stopover for the thousands of travellers and transporters moving through the Erongo Region daily.
He said the benefits are expected to support not only today’s entrepreneurs but also future generations.
Providing updates on ongoing support, Botshiwe announced that Navachab is restoring the Usakos fire truck at a cost of just over N$1 million.
This includes installing a water pump and the jaws of life. All parts have been ordered, he said, with delivery expected on 15 December 2025 and the truck is planned to be operational before the Christmas holidays.
In education, Navachab plans further interventions for 2026. Botshiwe said the mine is exploring support for Erongosig Primary School, including fencing and other safety improvements. The mine is also seeking partners to help restore the school hall to a usable condition. In addition, he confirmed advanced discussions with Andrada Mining to jointly develop a fully equipped science laboratory for Petrus Ganeb Secondary School in Uis, also targeted for 2026, to strengthen STEM learning in the region.
“These initiatives show what partnership can deliver,” he said. “Sustainable development requires deliberate action, resources and commitment.”
Botshiwe emphasised that Navachab remains committed to investing in line with community needs and national priorities, and will continue to ensure that Namibia’s natural wealth supports opportunity, dignity and prosperity for its people.
He concluded by thanking Usakos Mayor Irene Simeon-Kurtz and the Town Council for their leadership over the past five years, noting the mayor’s decision not to return for another term. He said her contributions have positioned the town for new opportunities and growth. “As we break ground today, let this mark the beginning of long-term transformation for Usakos,” he said.
