The Chamber of Mines of Namibia recently enhanced its historic premises with iconic mining symbols, reinforcing its deep-rooted identity within the mining sector.

Located at number 3 Schutzen Street, the premises, purchased from Extract Resources (later Swakop Uranium) in 2012, is a historic landmark constructed between 1927 and 1928, and is a protected site under the National Heritage Act. Over the years, various improvements and renovations have been carried out to maintain this significant building.

As the headquarters of the mining industry body, it is only fitting that the premises are adorned with appropriate mining symbols. Two of the most prominent are the Cocopan and the Hammer and Pick.

A Cocopan is a small wagon used in underground mines to transport ore along narrow-gauge railway lines. The Cocopan gained some fame when it featured prominently in one of the Indiana Jones movies.

The Hammer and Pick, sometimes referred to as the Hammer and Chisel, is a universal symbol of mining. This symbol is used on maps to indicate mines: an upright hammer and pick denotes an operational mine, while an inverted symbol signifies a closed mine.

The Chamber of Mines acquired an original Cocopan from the Onganja mine, thanks to the generous donation by Mr. Robert Carr. He provided the complete set of the bucket chassis and rails, which he delivered directly to the Chamber.

To complement the Cocopan, the Namibian Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT) fabricated a Hammer and Pick symbol. Additionally, NIMT’s trainee students refurbished the Cocopan and installed it on a concrete foundation in front of the Chamber building.

The Chamber of Mines wishes to express its profound gratitude to Mr. Robert Carr for his generous donation and to NIMT for the installation services provided.

Namibia boasts a long and rich history in mining, and the symbols now displayed at the Chamber of Mines premises eloquently represent this legacy, standing as majestic testaments to the country’s mining heritage.