Erongo pins hopes on mining-led growth

Erongo governor Nathalia /Goagoses says the region is positioning itself as Namibia's development powerhouse, with major investments in mining, infrastructure, housing and water projects expected to create jobs and improve living standards.

Delivering her second State of the Region Address in Swakopmund on Wednesday, /Goagoses said unemployment, which stood at 32% in 2025, is estimated to have fallen by at least two percentage points to 30%.

She attributed the improvement to collaboration between government, the private sector, development partners and local communities.

"Over the past year, our region has made strides across a broad range of sectors, demonstrating resilience, determination and zeal in delivering for our people," she said.

The governor said Erongo remains central to Namibia's economic ambitions, with mining, energy, tourism, fisheries, agriculture and logistics identified as key drivers of growth.

Among the region's major milestones was the elevation of Uis to local authority status, making it the eighth local authority in Erongo.

The regional council has committed N$1 million towards developing an infrastructure master plan for the town, while a N$8.5 million bulk water pipeline project is under way.

Government has also completed the 31-kilometre Ozondati-Omatjete bulk water pipeline at a cost of N$32 million, while water reticulation projects are being rolled out in Wlotzkasbaken and other settlements.

Housing delivery also featured prominently in the address.

According to /Goagoses, 41 houses are expected to be completed through the Build Together Programme by the end of the year in Omatjete, Uis and Otjimbingwe.

The governor also highlighted the growing importance of the mining sector, which continues to underpin the regional economy.

Several major projects, including the Etango Uranium Project, Tumas Uranium Project, Uis Lithium Expansion and the Twin Hills Gold Project, are expected to create hundreds of jobs during their construction and operational phases.

"The uranium industry employs more than 8 600 people and has local procurement expenditure exceeding N$14.5 billion, creating substantial business opportunities for Namibians," she said.

Tourism also recorded positive growth.

Between December 2025 and April 2026, Walvis Bay welcomed 59 cruise vessels carrying more than 67 000 passengers, while accommodation occupancy in Erongo exceeded the national average.

The region is also awaiting a decision on the nomination of the Dâures/Brandberg National Monument for UNESCO World Heritage status.

Despite the positive developments, /Goagoses acknowledged significant challenges.

She expressed concern over poor educational performance after Erongo recorded an overall pass rate of 33.7% in 2025, ranking ninth nationally at Ordinary Level and 11th at Advanced Subsidiary Level.

"This has prompted the Regional Council to host a Regional Education Introspection Conference to rigorously examine our performance and develop a recovery roadmap," she said.

The governor also raised concerns over crime and road safety.

The region recorded 8 979 criminal cases during the 2025/26 financial year, while road fatalities increased by 32% compared with the previous year.

She called for stronger law enforcement measures, particularly against reckless driving and heavy trucks operating along major transport corridors.

Looking ahead, /Goagoses said the region remains committed to attracting investment, creating jobs and improving service delivery.

"The state of the Erongo Region is one of resilience, progress and hope. We have made significant strides towards our development aspirations and remain committed to building an inclusive, prosperous and sustainable society," she said.