Oranjemund gears for self-governance

Namdeb and the Oranjemund Town Council (OTC) are in the process of executing a workable town transformation plan to pave the way for the handover of the new southern town by the diamond miner in early 2017. In an update to developments at the town this week, Namdeb management vowed that the company would assist the OTC in creating an investor-friendly environment, something it plans to achieve through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) that would drive large-scale projects in such areas as town development, accommodation, tourism, desert agriculture and manufacturing. “We are receiving the necessary support from all stakeholders to fast-track the transformation process in a responsible and sustainable manner,” Namdeb’s head of town transformation and sustainability, Tony Bessinger, said this week. “The community is excited and is looking forward to the exciting developments and private property ownership in Oranjemund,” he said. Namdeb will continue to maintain the town’s infrastructure, to provide municipal services and assistance during the transition period, with assistance from the town council. “I commend the Oranjemund Town Council for their commitment to the town transformation process as I believe that through exploring diverse opportunities, Oranjemund can exist beyond diamond mining,” Namdeb GM Riaan Burger said. The company said a task team is studying the practicalities regarding access to the previously restricted diamond area, and the legal frameworks currently in place in various ministries, to ensure a smooth transition. Oranjemund is situated in a protected diamond mining area (Sperrgebiet) in terms of Namibia’s Diamond Act. STAFF REPORTER