Mining encroaches in Kunene

Epupa Constituency Councillor Tjimutambo Kuuoko says the expansion of mining activities in the area is increasingly encroaching on communities and homesteads, with residents already forced to move due to mining-related disturbances.

Kuuoko was speaking during the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources’ visit to the Kunene Region this week, where the committee is assessing mining activities and their impact on local communities.

He also raised concerns over drilling taking place close to homesteads and alleged that water from certain boreholes has turned black and is flowing into a nearby river, where children looking after livestock reportedly drink from it.

Kuuoko further highlighted tensions surrounding small-scale mining claims and the impact of mining activities on grazing areas and livestock.

-Phillipus Josef