Editorial: Balancing vision with reality

Namibia’s push for greater local ownership in mining and energy is central to its NDP6 vision, which aims to transform resource wealth into lasting national benefits. The logic is sound – more equity in Namibian hands means more profits, skills and decision-making power staying at home.

But alongside constructive policy debate, some voices have gone further, calling for resources to remain untouched underground until locals can take full control. This view may sound patriotic, but it runs counter to NDP6’s targets and the urgent need to create jobs, infrastructure and revenue.

Every year of inaction means lost opportunities for growth, training and technological advancement.

Those who advocate delay must also present viable alternatives for funding schools, hospitals and development without these revenues.

International investors are not merely sources of capital; they bring technical expertise, market access and the resilience to absorb exploration risks that the state alone cannot shoulder.

Raising ownership stakes too quickly risks deterring these partners and leaving projects stranded.

The way forward is balance: gradual increases in local equity tied to structured training, joint ventures and procurement policies that steadily build capacity. Tax incentives for partnerships and binding commitments to skills transfer can make this a win for both sides.

Namibia’s resources are a national inheritance, but unlocking their value requires collaboration, not confrontation.

The goal should not be to choose between local control and foreign investment but to design a model that works in tandem, delivering fair rewards to Namibians while keeping global partners engaged.

Real progress will come from pragmatic policy, not from leaving our mineral wealth idle in the ground.