SAUMA Engages with IAEA on Uranium In Situ Leaching Project in Omaheke
- SAUMA
- Feb 26
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 27
On Friday, 6 February 2026, the Stampriet Aquifer Uranium Mining Association (SAUMA) received an invitation from Environmental Commissioner Timoteus Mufeti to participate in a closed stakeholder engagement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
This engagement forms part of a technical review of the proposed uranium in situ leach (ISL) test mining project in Namibia’s Omaheke Region.
Why is the IAEA reviewing the application for uranium test mining in Namibia?
A delegation of six representatives from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) visited Namibia from 9–13 February 2026 to conduct a technical review.
The review aims to provide advice on:
Environmental protection
Groundwater resource management
Public health implications
Regulatory oversight and compliance
According to the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT), the purpose of the mission is to “strengthen evidence-based decision-making at the national level.”
During their visit, the delegation engaged with:
Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT)
Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS)
Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform (MAFWLR)
Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy (MIME)
The Prime Minister of Namibia
The Governor of the Omaheke Region
Affected farmers and Community Members
The programme also included a field visit to the proposed mining site.
What Is Being Reviewed?
The IAEA technical team has been invited to review and comment on Heads
pring Investments’ application for an Environmental Clearance Certificate to conduct test mining using in situ leaching (ISL).
The proposed test mining phase is expected to last four years.
During this period, various chemical leachates would be injected into underground aquifers to dissolve and extract uranium.
Why Is This Concerning?
SAUMA strongly opposes the proposed test mining.
In situ leaching involves injecting chemical solutions directly into underground formations to dissolve uranium, which is then pumped to the surface for processing. While marketed as less disruptive than conventional mining, ISL carries significant risks to underground drinking water — particularly in arid regions like Namibia.
The proposed test site is located within a transboundary aquifer that also provides underground drinking water to neighbouring Botswanna and South Africa.
In a country as water-scarce as Namibia, contamination of groundwater resources could have irreversible consequences for:
Drinking water security
Agriculture and livestock
Long-term environmental sustainability
Public health
SAUMA’s Position: Protecting Namibia’s Groundwater
SAUMA’s experts and Management Committee attended the engagement session and presented evidence-based concerns gathered over the past four years.
We have consulted international experts and industry specialists to better understand:
The risks associated with uranium in situ leaching
Long-term groundwater contamination patterns
Regulatory best practices in similar environments
During the engagement, the IAEA delegates asked detailed questions and listened attentively to SAUMA’s input.
We reiterated our long-standing and non-negotiable request:
A Comprehensive Independent Hydrogeological Study of Our Transboundary Aquifer
Before any test mining or uranium extraction may be considered, Namibia must fully understand the potential impact on its underground water systems.
When Will a Decision Be Made?
The IAEA delegation will compile its findings and submit recommendations to MEFT.
The review currently focuses only on the test mining application.
The Environmental Commissioner indicated that a final decision is expected by June 2026.
Why Groundwater Protection Matters in Namibia
Namibia is one of the driest countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Our groundwater reserves are not just environmental assets — they are lifelines. We do not have an alternative.
Water is not replaceable.
Water is not renewable in the short term.
Water is life.
SAUMA remains committed to safeguarding Namibia’s natural resources through transparency, scientific integrity, and responsible decision-making.
The Conversation - Why Namibia should not allow uranium leach mining in the Stampriet Artesian Basin
