Namibia’s largest salt producer eyes 12% growth

Walvis Bay Salt Holdings (Pty) Ltd, one of Africa’s largest solar salt producers, has announced plans to expand its operations within the Dorob National Park, south-west of Walvis Bay.



The company has applied to the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) for an amendment to its Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) to increase its salt production capacity and related facilities within its existing Mining Licence (ML) 37 area.



Established in 1964, Walvis Bay Salt Works currently produces more than 1.1 million metric tonnes of salt per year. The proposed expansion will add approximately 12% (about 636 hectares) to the facility’s evaporation and crystallisation ponds, boosting production while improving operational efficiency.



According to the company, existing infrastructure such as seawater intake systems, processing plants and transport routes have sufficient capacity to support the planned increase in output. The additional production will also strengthen the company’s economic sustainability.



The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) amendment process, led by Namisun Environmental Projects and Development, will assess the potential ecological and social impacts of the proposed development. These include possible effects on biodiversity, marine life, groundwater quality and archaeological sites, as well as socio-economic aspects such as job creation and local procurement opportunities.



Construction of the new ponds will mainly involve earthworks and is expected to take between 12 and 18 months to complete. The company has committed to minimising environmental impacts by avoiding sensitive habitats and adjusting the project layout to reduce its overall footprint by at least 30%.