B2Gold’s mission extends beyond mining, with a strong focus on making meaningful contributions that uplift communities. In the Otjozondjupa region, the company, together with key stakeholders identified core areas essential for sustainable development, including education and healthcare. Through its support of initiatives like EduVision and the construction of the Ombili Clinic, B2Gold continues to make a positive impact on the lives of Namibians. While these two projects have distinct objectives, they share a common goal of empowering communities to thrive and build a sustainable future.
EduVision: Bridging the Educational Gap with Technology
Education is a cornerstone of sustainable development, and B2Gold is proud to play a pivotal role in expanding access to quality education in remote regions. Through the EduVision project, initiated by Edugate Academy in Otjiwarongo, technology is being used to overcome the challenges of teacher shortages and resource limitations. Smartboards, paired with satellite links, allow teachers to simultaneously deliver lessons to multiple classrooms, ensuring that pupils in rural areas are not left behind.
Since its inception in 2018, the EduVision project has been a groundbreaking initiative to enhance education in Namibia’s remote areas through digital technology. Over the years, this innovative programme has reached 20 schools, positively impacting 10,000 pupils and 432 teachers across Namibia. As part of B2Gold’s ongoing partnership with EduVision, the company recently sponsored new Smartboards for Khorab Secondary School in Otavi and Ombili Primary School in Otjiwarongo, an investment of N$750,000. This latest contribution adds to the N$2.3 million B2Gold has invested in the initiative since 2018. By empowering educators and students with digital tools, the company is helping bridge the educational access gap and pave the way for brighter futures.
Ombili Clinic: Strengthening Healthcare for the Community
Hon. Marlyn Mbakera – Chairperson of the Otjozondjupa Regional Council,
Hon. Dr. Kalumbi Shangula – Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Leake
Hangala – B2Gold Namibia Chairperson of the Board, Mr. John Roos – B2Gold
Namibia Country Manager and Mr. Gerbardo Timotheus – Director of Health,
Otjozondjupa Region at the official handover of the Ombili Clinic in Otjiwarongo.
Just as education is vital for the mind, healthcare is critical for the body. Recognizing the importance of accessible healthcare, B2Gold has invested in the construction of the Ombili Clinic in Otjiwarongo, a facility designed to meet the healthcare needs of the local community. Breaking ground on April 16, 2024, the clinic was completed ahead of schedule and officially handed over to the Ministry of Health and Social Services on October 2nd, 2024.
With a total investment of N$6 million, the Ombili Clinic offers a wide range of essential services, including general consultations, preventative care, emergency treatment, dental services, and pharmaceutical support. This facility marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to improving healthcare access in the Otjozondjupa region, ensuring that residents receive the medical care they need, right in their community.
B2Gold’s commitment to the Otjozondjupa region exemplifies the company’s broader philosophy of contributing to the sustainable development of communities. By addressing critical sectors such as education and healthcare, B2Gold is not only improving access to essential services but also fostering long-term resilience and growth.
Contributed by B2Gold Namibia
