Gold Mining in Namibia
Historical Overview
Gold mining in Namibia dates back to the early 1900s, when initial discoveries of alluvial and hard-rock deposits attracted small-scale prospecting. Commercial-scale production remained limited until the late 20th century, as modern operations only emerged with systematic exploration and targeted investment. The development of QKR’s Navachab Mine in 1989, Namibia’s first-ever gold mine, marked the start of the country’s commercial gold industry and established Namibia as an important gold producer in southern Africa.
In the 2010s, B2Gold’s Otjikoto Mine, located between Otjiwarongo and Otavi, was developed following the discovery of a significant deposit. Otjikoto commenced construction in 2013 and poured its first gold in 2014, becoming Namibia’s largest gold producer and a flagship project in the country’s gold sector.
Current Mines
- B2Gold — Otjikoto Mine: Since commencing commercial production in 2015, the Otjikoto Mine has consistently delivered strong output and remains Namibia’s largest gold producer. The operation is transitioning from open-pit mining to underground operations at the Wolfshag deposit, supporting continued production beyond 2025. In parallel, the nearby Antelope deposit is being advanced through development and evaluation work and is expected to increase the operation’s production capacity to approximately 110,000 ounces per annum between 2029 and 2032.
- Navachab Mine (QKR): QKR’s Navachab Mine near Karibib continues to expand through new investment, technology upgrades, and ongoing exploration. These initiatives are designed to extend the mine’s operational life beyond 2030, maintaining its role as a cornerstone of Namibia’s gold sector.
New Mines and Exploration
- Twin Hills Project (Osino Resources): Osino Resources has commenced construction of its Twin Hills mine, with first gold production anticipated in 2027.
- Exploration Growth: Additional exploration across the Damara Belt and other prospective areas is ongoing, with multiple new licences and drilling programmes underway. Early results from these programs are promising, highlighting Namibia’s potential for future gold discoveries and mine development.