China-Namibia Mining Partnership: Empowering Women, Revitalizing Communities, and Shaping Africa’s Future

In the heart of Namibia’s arid Namib Desert, the iconic Rossing uranium mine—a once-struggling giant of the mining industry—has found new life, thanks to an unlikely hero. The Rossing mine, one of the world’s largest open-pit uranium operations, was teetering on the brink of closure after years of declining production and aging infrastructure. But in 2019, the tide turned when China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) took the reins from Rio Tinto, injecting fresh energy and innovation into the operation.

Now, under the banner of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, the Rossing uranium mine stands as a beacon of international cooperation, economic revitalization, and women’s empowerment in Namibia. As Chinese and African workers toil under the relentless sun, new stories of opportunity and hope unfold amid the desert’s iconic sand dunes.

A New Chapter: Transforming Lives and Futures

Since the CNNC acquisition, the Rossing mine has not only resumed its position as a vital supplier of natural uranium, contributing roughly 5% of global output, but it has also become a catalyst for change in the local community. This transformation extends beyond economic impact; it’s about empowering individuals, particularly women, to thrive in roles that were once beyond their reach.

Angela Kapapilo, the principal resource geologist at Rossing, is a testament to this shift. Since joining the company in 2010, Kapapilo has witnessed firsthand the evolution of Rossing, particularly after CNNC’s investment. Now leading the Z20 uranium deposit exploration project, she is at the forefront of extending the mine’s life by an additional 20 years. “Being the principal resource geologist is a highlight of my career, thanks to the training provided by CNNC,” Kapapilo said. “This role reflects the value CNNC places on African talent.”

Kapapilo’s story is one of many. Under the new leadership, Rossing has implemented inclusive policies and advanced training programs, empowering local employees—especially women—to climb the professional ladder. The company’s support has even enabled Kapapilo to complete a master’s degree in geology, equipping her with cutting-edge skills in geostatistics and machine learning.

“Chinese enterprises treat every employee equally, providing opportunities to lead and achieve personal ambitions,” she said. “This sense of equality and empowerment is what makes working here so fulfilling.”

Empowering Women and Strengthening Communities

Beyond individual achievements, CNNC’s involvement at Rossing has fostered broader societal benefits. The mine has created thousands of direct and indirect jobs, impacting over 10,000 Namibian lives. Importantly, many of these opportunities have gone to women, elevating their economic and social status.

The commitment to female empowerment is evident in the company’s actions. Since 2019, Rossing has partnered with local organizations to launch female youth entrepreneurship programs, helping young women start their own businesses. Additionally, the Rossing Foundation supports education and health initiatives across Namibia, providing essential resources to schools in rural areas where educational infrastructure is severely lacking.

“The Rossing mine is more than just a workplace; it’s a lifeline for many Namibians,” Kapapilo said. “The benefits of continued operations ripple through our society, touching everything from local businesses to national tax revenue.”

Advancing Sustainability and Innovation

The CNNC’s investment isn’t just revitalizing the mine; it’s also advancing Namibia’s mining industry toward a more sustainable and technologically advanced future. The company’s focus on innovation has introduced new equipment and methodologies, pushing production to new heights while prioritizing environmental considerations.

Kapapilo highlights an instance when Rossing’s partnership with a Chinese institution resulted in a tailored technological solution that wasn’t available on the global market. “This experience underscored the unique value that Chinese companies bring—combining cutting-edge technology with local needs,” she noted.

These innovations extend beyond the mine. During a recent visit to China, Kapapilo was struck by the country’s progress in electric vehicle adoption—a glimpse of a cleaner, carbon-neutral future that she hopes can inspire similar developments in Namibia.

A Partnership for Prosperity

Namibian Minister of Mines and Energy Tom Alweendo praised the impact of Chinese investment, stating that the mining sector contributes significantly to the country’s GDP. “Chinese investment has been instrumental in establishing Namibia as one of the world’s leading uranium producers,” he remarked. Indeed, Namibia’s mining sector contributed 14.4% to the national GDP in 2023, underscoring the economic importance of partnerships like Rossing.

The CNNC’s acquisition of Rossing has not only secured the mine’s future but also set a powerful example of international cooperation and local empowerment. As Chinese and Namibian employees work side by side, they are not just mining uranium—they are building a brighter future for Namibia, where economic opportunity and social progress go hand in hand.

Source:
Global Times