Mining output in Namibia has declined compared to last year, largely due to reduced gold and zinc production, the Chamber of Mines revealed in its latest update on 5/10/2026.
According to the report, July marked the first time in 2026 that Namibia’s mines produced more than in the same month in 2025. Despite this, overall mining production is expected to remain subdued throughout 2026. The Chamber noted that while strong international gold and uranium prices continue to support revenues and exports, the lower physical output is holding back the sector’s contribution to economic growth.
The decrease in gold production is mainly attributed to existing operations transitioning from open-pit to underground mining methods. Data from the Namibia Statistics Agency corroborates this trend, showing the mining sector contracted by 3.1% in the second quarter of 2026 compared to the previous year, a slower pace of decline than the 7.1% contraction recorded in the first quarter.
Looking ahead, the chamber’s report highlights potential growth in 2027 and beyond, driven by ramping up projects in gold and uranium mining. Increasing uranium production is expected as Langer Heinrich mine continues its expansion, alongside advancements in Bannerman’s Etango and Reptile Uranium’s Tumas projects. However, the diamond sector is not expected to see improvement in the near term.
The report also cautions that global economic uncertainties pose risks to the mining industry in Namibia. A prolonged global slowdown and rising financing costs for capital-intensive mining projects could dampen demand for minerals and investment in the sector.
The Chamber of Mines remains optimistic about the medium-term prospects but underscores the need for vigilance amid a challenging global environment.
