Staff Reporter
THE Stampriet Aquifer Uranium Mining Association (SAUMA) has raised renewed concerns over the potential environmental and socio-economic risks linked to proposed In Situ Leach (ISL) uranium mining in the Stampriet Artesian Basin, warning that the project could threaten Namibia’s critical groundwater resources and agricultural sustainability.
In a statement issued, the organisation cautioned that proceeding with uranium mining in the basin could have severe consequences for drinking water supplies, food production, and regional livelihoods. SAUMA argued that insufficient attention has been given to scientific evidence highlighting the risks of ISL mining, despite provisions in the Water Resources Management Act, which guarantee access to safe drinking water and prohibit water pollution.
The association emphasised the importance of the Stampriet Artesian Basin, describing it as a vital agricultural hub that generates more than N$1.1 billion annually in crops and livestock and supports over 13,000 jobs. It warned that contamination of the aquifer would have far-reaching consequences in a country already facing food insecurity, as the basin serves as the primary water source for farming communities, towns, and villages in the semi-arid region.
SAUMA expressed concern over support from some political leaders and authorities for uranium mining in the Leonardville area, arguing that the potential dangers of ISL mining are not fully understood. The organisation explained that the mining process involves injecting chemical solutions into underground aquifers to dissolve uranium, which is then pumped to the surface. It warned that this process introduces toxic substances, including radionuclides and heavy metals, into the water system, potentially exceeding safe drinking water standards.
The association further cautioned that large-scale groundwater extraction for irrigation could accelerate the spread of contaminated water beyond the mining area, posing a risk to aquifers that extend into neighbouring Botswana and South Africa. This, it said, could expose Namibia to legal and financial consequences under transboundary water agreements.
SAUMA also criticised what it described as a lack of engagement from government authorities, adding that repeated requests for consultations with responsible ministers have largely gone unanswered. It maintained that the risks associated with ISL mining have been documented in international studies, including those by the International Atomic Energy Agency.
The organisation rejected claims that ISL mining is environmentally safe, arguing that the most serious impacts occur underground and are not immediately visible. It stressed that any development that threatens access to safe drinking water should not be permitted, warning that contamination could be irreversible and affect future generations.
While affirming its support for economic development and job creation, SAUMA said such initiatives should not come at the expense of essential natural resources. It called for greater transparency, scientific scrutiny, and adherence to environmental regulations before any decisions are made regarding uranium mining in the basin.
Over the past four years, SAUMA has formally communicated its concerns to the Namibian public and to government decision-makers through numerous public presentations and open letters.
These communications have addressed a range of issues, from the technical and environmental risks of ISL mining to the need for transparency, adherence to international standards, and protection of transboundary water resources. The correspondence spans from a February 2023 letter to the Omaheke Governor highlighting the direct threat to the Auob Formation aquifer, to January 2026 letters challenging misleading statements about uranium reserves in Leonardville, and most recently a March 2026 letter expressing alarm over a Parliamentary Standing Committee report that recommends permitting ISL uranium extraction without adequate independent studies or stakeholder consultation.
Through these efforts, SAUMA has consistently called for decisions grounded in science, transparency, and the precautionary principle to safeguard Namibia’s most vital water resources. SAUMA added that it will continue to raise its concerns through various platforms and engage stakeholders until what it describes as a safe and sustainable solution is achieved.
Photo: SAUMA
