Godfrey Dzinomwa | Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) (original) (raw)
Papers by Godfrey Dzinomwa
Minerals
The study evaluated the milling kinetics of three copper ores, from a multi-mineralised deposit, ... more The study evaluated the milling kinetics of three copper ores, from a multi-mineralised deposit, which were identified as sulphide 1 (with bornite as a dominant copper mineral), sulphide 2 (mainly composed of chalcopyrite) and oxide (with malachite as a dominant copper mineral) and related the breakage parameters to the mineral composition data. Five mono-size fractions between 1000 µm and 212 µm were dry milled for short grinding times in the laboratory ball mill in order to obtain data for predicting breakage rate parameters. The analytical and mineralogical characterisation of the ores were performed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis, optical microscopy analysis and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The mineralogy data showed that quartz was the abundant gangue mineral (average for each ore was above 60% (w/w)), followed by K-feldspar minerals (orthoclase and microcline) which constituted between 4% (...
Cogent engineering, Feb 2, 2023
Minerals, Oct 6, 2022
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Heliyon, Apr 1, 2021
Before disposal of any metallurgical waste to the environment, it is the responsibility of mining... more Before disposal of any metallurgical waste to the environment, it is the responsibility of mining institutes to adhere to the permissible metal content limits. Base metals, especially iron and copper, have adverse effects of reducing the soil pH and excessive concentrations of these in the disposed waste may result in soil pollution and toxicity, with adverse effects on plant growth and animal health. Copper slag is a metallurgical waste that is disposed by way of stockpiling at designated dump sites within a mining site. The observed depletion of highgrade iron ores in Botswana and the environmental hazards associated with disposal of untreated metallurgical waste, presents an opportunity for research on secondary sources of iron and copper. Our characterization results show that this BCL copper slag is a good secondary source of base metals, especially iron and copper. These results reveal that the elemental proportion of iron was around 35.4%. Literature states that an iron grade that is considered viable for economic beneficiation should be at least 25% and this slag has an iron content above this limit, hence poses a serious environmental threat upon disposal. This article presents an investigation into the mineralogy of the copper slag at a plant situated in Selebi Phikwe, a town in the northern part of Botswana. Quantitative evaluation of minerals by scanning electron microscopy (QEMSCAN) quantified that no cobaltsulphide was detected and strongly indicated that the cobalt within the sample occurs in solid solution in either the fayalite phase or glass phase. Spot analysis from electron probe microanalyzer (EPMS) images indicated an unusually high content of copper compared to any other metal. We elucidate that, this was due to the inefficient processing techniques employed during operational years of the mine. The relative compositions of Co, Fe, Ni and Cu were 0.14%, 35.4%, 0.28% and 0.29% respectively. This analysis justifies our interest in considering this copper slag as a secondary source of iron for beneficiation purposes.
Figure 1 depicts the schematic diagram of the overall plant. Feed preparation consists of a pair ... more Figure 1 depicts the schematic diagram of the overall plant. Feed preparation consists of a pair of Niro spray dryers, each rated at 50 tph, and a Kvaerner multi-coil steam dryer, also rated at 50 tph, supplying dried concentrate to the flash smelting furnace charge bin via three 1 000 tonne capacity storage silos. The concentrate analysis is typically 5% nickel, 3% copper, 30% sulphur, 45% iron and 8% silica. A pair of loss-in-weight feeders supply 120 tph of concentrate feed to a single concentrate burner, with flux, secondary fuel in the form of milled coal and recycled boiler dust being added ahead of the single burner via an arrangement of bins, feeders and drag link conveyors. This gives a total charge to the furnace in excess of 180 tph. Process air is enriched to 30–35% oxygen and steam preheated to 260°C and supplies of the order of 60 tph of oxygen to the process. Matte produced from the furnace, at a grade of 30–35% combined metal, is upgraded in one of three 30’x13’ Pier...
Namibia is a water stressed country with a limited amount of fresh water. Therefore, the use of w... more Namibia is a water stressed country with a limited amount of fresh water. Therefore, the use of water is an important topic in the country’s development agenda. Water is a shared and finite resource, with high social, cultural, environmental and economic values. However, freshwater resources are under pressure from ore processing, industrialization, urbanization and the demands of a growing population. In Namibia, ore processing, coupled with the anticipated increase in water demand for human consumption and other uses, has created significant stress on its limited water resources. This is critical in mining industry as water remains typically the prime environmental medium (besides air) that is affected by mining activities. This study sought to investigate the strides made in water management in mining, especially in environmentally sensitive areas in Namibia. Most mining companies operate adjacent to or alongside farms, national parks and fishing areas. The overall objective of t...
The Great Dyke is a mineral rich geological feature in the central part of Zimbabwe which stretch... more The Great Dyke is a mineral rich geological feature in the central part of Zimbabwe which stretches for about 550km in the SSW to NNE direction. It hosts, among other mineral resources, the second largest known resources of Platinum Group Minerals after South Africa and the largest high grade chrome ore resources in the world. These ore resources present Zimbabwe with a competitive advantage and a unique opportunity for developing world class mines and processing facilities which could form the backbone of a vibrant metallurgical and manufacturing industry. Given the growing demand for Platinum as a catalyst in reducing air pollution and in jewellery, increased production of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs), their beneficiation and value addition would provide a springboard for socio-economic development of the country.
Journal of The South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Apr 14, 2023
The depletion of the ore reserves in the world necessitates the search for secondary sources such... more The depletion of the ore reserves in the world necessitates the search for secondary sources such as waste products (tailings and slag). A smelter in Namibia has historic slag which accumulated over decades of its operating life. Analytical and mineralogical characterization of the slag was performed using the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS), ICP-OES, scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis, and optical microscopy analysis. The chemical analyses showed that the metal values contained in the slag were mainly copper, lead, and zinc whose average contents were approximately 0.3%Cu, 2.4%Pb and 3.2%Zn. About 10.5%Fe was also contained in the slag. Germanium was detected by scanning electron microscopy, but was however below detection limits of the chemical analysis equipment used. Based on the results, approximate conditions under which the different slag phases were formed were estimated and the recovery rout...
Crystals, 2021
Copper slag is generated when copper and nickel ores are recovered from their parent ores using a... more Copper slag is generated when copper and nickel ores are recovered from their parent ores using a pyrometallurgical process, and these ores usually contain other elements which include iron, cobalt, silica, and alumina. Slag is a major problem in the metallurgical industries as it is dumped into heaps which have accumulated into millions of tons over the years. Moreover, they pose a danger to the environment as they occupy vacant land (space problems). Over the past few years, studies have been conducted to investigate the copper slag-producing outlets to learn their behavior, as well as properties of slag, to have the knowledge of how to better reuse and recycle copper slag. This review article provides the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of slag, as well as a characterization of copper slag, with the aim of reusing and recycling the slag to benefit the environment and economy. Recycling methods are considered an attractive technological pathway for reducing waste and green...
Many countries in Southern Africa are generally endowed with a wealth of minerals. For example, S... more Many countries in Southern Africa are generally endowed with a wealth of minerals. For example, South Africa and Zimbabwe are host to approximately 80% of the world's Platinum Group Minerals (PGMs) and chromite resources. Vast deposits of coal, both thermal and metallurgical, occur and are mined in significant quantities in Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia. However, the region has over the years experienced a shortfall in skilled personnel as well as well-resourced training institutions to convert the comparative advantage arising from the rich mineral endowment to a competitive advantage through efficient extraction, beneficiation and value addition. In recent years, Governments in the sub-region have responded to this unfavorable situation by opening a number of universities and other tertiary institutions focussing on educating and training a new generation of mineral professionals. This study reviewed the recent developments in the region and assessed the extent to which capacity shortfalls are being addressed in the minerals sector. The methodology included questionnaires and interviews, and the analysis was mainly qualitative. The main findings of the study were that although several mineral education institutions were being opened in the region, there is an inadequate number of professionals in the mining and minerals field in the region for teaching and research, and there are few wellequipped modern facilities for teaching and research such as laboratories and lecture rooms. This situation presents an opportunity for collaborative initiatives, not only within the region but internationally, aimed at addressing these shortfalls and ensuring that appropriate skills are developed for the mining industry and also for the academic institutions.
International journal of georesources and environment
Many countries in Southern Africa are generally endowed with a wealth of minerals. For example, S... more Many countries in Southern Africa are generally endowed with a wealth of minerals. For example, South Africa and Zimbabwe are host to approximately 80% of the world's Platinum Group Minerals (PGMs) and chromite resources. Vast deposits of coal, both thermal and metallurgical, occur and are mined in significant quantities in Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia. However, the region has over the years experienced a shortfall in skilled personnel as well as well-resourced training institutions to convert the comparative advantage arising from the rich mineral endowment to a competitive advantage through efficient extraction, beneficiation and value addition. In recent years, Governments in the sub-region have responded to this unfavorable situation by opening a number of universities and other tertiary institutions focussing on educating and training a new generation of mineral professionals. This study reviewed the recent developments in the region and assessed the extent to which capacity shortfalls are being addressed in the minerals sector. The methodology included questionnaires and interviews, and the analysis was mainly qualitative. The main findings of the study were that although several mineral education institutions were being opened in the region, there is an inadequate number of professionals in the mining and minerals field in the region for teaching and research, and there are few wellequipped modern facilities for teaching and research such as laboratories and lecture rooms. This situation presents an opportunity for collaborative initiatives, not only within the region but internationally, aimed at addressing these shortfalls and ensuring that appropriate skills are developed for the mining industry and also for the academic institutions.
Geo-Resources Environment and Engineering
Namibia is known as water stressed country with a limited amount of fresh water. Therefore, the u... more Namibia is known as water stressed country with a limited amount of fresh water. Therefore, the use of water is an important topic in the country's development agenda. Water is a shared and finite resource, with high social, cultural, environmental and economic value. However, freshwater resources are under pressure from ore processing, industrialization, urbanization and the demands of a growing population. In Namibia, ore processing, coupled with the anticipated increase in water demand for human consumption and other uses, has created significant stress on the limited water resources of the country. This is critical in the mining industry as water remains typically the prime environmental medium (besides air) that is affected by mining activities. This study sought to investigate the strides made in water management in mining, especially in environmentally sensitive areas of Namibia. Most mining companies operate next or alongside farms, national parks and fishing areas. The overall objective of this research was to highlight the current practices in Namibia's mineral industry operating in environmentally sensitive areas especially in areas where uranium is being mined and processed. The methodology consisted of comprehensive literature review, field visits to the case study areas, and comparative studies with best practices. This study shows that over a ten-year period, freshwater consumption was reduced by over 55% per tonne of milled ore in uranium mines, resulting in substantive financial savings as well as the delay in water augmentation through desalination. The strategies employed by the Namibian companies involve inclusive stakeholders' engagement, recycling and reuse, and the minimization of water losses. The realization that the water challenge cannot be solved by any one party acting alone has been fundamental in ensuring environmental compliance within the mining industry in Namibia. Namibia's industrial leaders have increasingly recognized that reducing the water footprint of mining activities must be one of the key performance indicators for management. The major finding of this study was that Namibia with its unique ecosystems, mineral reserves, and emerging industries can harness a wide range of resources both to improve the welfare of its citizens and to protect the integrity of its environment.
The Extractive Industries and Society
The divergence between the mining industry's business-case decisions and key stakeholder expectat... more The divergence between the mining industry's business-case decisions and key stakeholder expectations, both local and global, is complex. The objective of this paper is to examine the approach of mining companies to the concept of Social License to Operate (SLO), with a focus on the African continent. A background to the concept of SLO was outlined. An inextricable link between the African business context and the approach that mining companies adopt in fulfilling an extremely cosmetic process was proffered. The key issues defining the African context, namely corruption, conflict, human rights, weak institutions, artisanal and small-scale mining amongst others were interrogated within the mining industry context and further related to the concept of SLO by identifying specific examples. The paper further identifies the key differences in the approach to SLO and examines some underlying reasons. Finally, the paper proposes some interventions that the mining industry can adopt in order to gain the SLO in Africa. The proposed interventions were premised on genuine engagement with all relevant stakeholders as opposed to tick-box exercises. One of the key pillars identified to unlock this licence was through strengthening and building upstream, downstream and side-stream linkages between local suppliers and the mining industry.
Journal- South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
The mining industry worldwide is facing a tremendous shortage of minerals engineers in all fields... more The mining industry worldwide is facing a tremendous shortage of minerals engineers in all fields of specialization. For instance, in Australia the skills shortage in the mining industry has been identified as one of the top risks facing the mining industry. In Namibia most minerals engineers employed are expatriates, with some being Namibians who studied abroad. The minerals engineering programmes at the Polytechnic of Namibia are still in their infancy. These programmes were designed to meet the mining industry skills needs. Being young has its advantages in that lessons can be learnt from older minerals education institutions that went through similar challenges. However, this does not imply just copying and implementing their approaches, since the context differs and, to ensure sustainability of the minerals education programmes, curricula have to be customized to the local context. This paper reviews the interventions made by the Polytechnic of Namibia in order to ensure the su...
Journal- South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
The mining industry worldwide is facing a tremendous shortage of minerals engineers in all fields... more The mining industry worldwide is facing a tremendous shortage of minerals engineers in all fields of specialization. For instance, in Australia the skills shortage in the mining industry has been identified as one of the top risks facing the mining industry. In Namibia most minerals engineers employed are expatriates, with some being Namibians who studied abroad. The minerals engineering programmes at the Polytechnic of Namibia are still in their infancy. These programmes were designed to meet the mining industry skills needs. Being young has its advantages in that lessons can be learnt from older minerals education institutions that went through similar challenges. However, this does not imply just copying and implementing their approaches, since the context differs and, to ensure sustainability of the minerals education programmes, curricula have to be customized to the local context. This paper reviews the interventions made by the Polytechnic of Namibia in order to ensure the su...
Minerals
The study evaluated the milling kinetics of three copper ores, from a multi-mineralised deposit, ... more The study evaluated the milling kinetics of three copper ores, from a multi-mineralised deposit, which were identified as sulphide 1 (with bornite as a dominant copper mineral), sulphide 2 (mainly composed of chalcopyrite) and oxide (with malachite as a dominant copper mineral) and related the breakage parameters to the mineral composition data. Five mono-size fractions between 1000 µm and 212 µm were dry milled for short grinding times in the laboratory ball mill in order to obtain data for predicting breakage rate parameters. The analytical and mineralogical characterisation of the ores were performed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis, optical microscopy analysis and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The mineralogy data showed that quartz was the abundant gangue mineral (average for each ore was above 60% (w/w)), followed by K-feldspar minerals (orthoclase and microcline) which constituted between 4% (...
Cogent engineering, Feb 2, 2023
Minerals, Oct 6, 2022
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Heliyon, Apr 1, 2021
Before disposal of any metallurgical waste to the environment, it is the responsibility of mining... more Before disposal of any metallurgical waste to the environment, it is the responsibility of mining institutes to adhere to the permissible metal content limits. Base metals, especially iron and copper, have adverse effects of reducing the soil pH and excessive concentrations of these in the disposed waste may result in soil pollution and toxicity, with adverse effects on plant growth and animal health. Copper slag is a metallurgical waste that is disposed by way of stockpiling at designated dump sites within a mining site. The observed depletion of highgrade iron ores in Botswana and the environmental hazards associated with disposal of untreated metallurgical waste, presents an opportunity for research on secondary sources of iron and copper. Our characterization results show that this BCL copper slag is a good secondary source of base metals, especially iron and copper. These results reveal that the elemental proportion of iron was around 35.4%. Literature states that an iron grade that is considered viable for economic beneficiation should be at least 25% and this slag has an iron content above this limit, hence poses a serious environmental threat upon disposal. This article presents an investigation into the mineralogy of the copper slag at a plant situated in Selebi Phikwe, a town in the northern part of Botswana. Quantitative evaluation of minerals by scanning electron microscopy (QEMSCAN) quantified that no cobaltsulphide was detected and strongly indicated that the cobalt within the sample occurs in solid solution in either the fayalite phase or glass phase. Spot analysis from electron probe microanalyzer (EPMS) images indicated an unusually high content of copper compared to any other metal. We elucidate that, this was due to the inefficient processing techniques employed during operational years of the mine. The relative compositions of Co, Fe, Ni and Cu were 0.14%, 35.4%, 0.28% and 0.29% respectively. This analysis justifies our interest in considering this copper slag as a secondary source of iron for beneficiation purposes.
Figure 1 depicts the schematic diagram of the overall plant. Feed preparation consists of a pair ... more Figure 1 depicts the schematic diagram of the overall plant. Feed preparation consists of a pair of Niro spray dryers, each rated at 50 tph, and a Kvaerner multi-coil steam dryer, also rated at 50 tph, supplying dried concentrate to the flash smelting furnace charge bin via three 1 000 tonne capacity storage silos. The concentrate analysis is typically 5% nickel, 3% copper, 30% sulphur, 45% iron and 8% silica. A pair of loss-in-weight feeders supply 120 tph of concentrate feed to a single concentrate burner, with flux, secondary fuel in the form of milled coal and recycled boiler dust being added ahead of the single burner via an arrangement of bins, feeders and drag link conveyors. This gives a total charge to the furnace in excess of 180 tph. Process air is enriched to 30–35% oxygen and steam preheated to 260°C and supplies of the order of 60 tph of oxygen to the process. Matte produced from the furnace, at a grade of 30–35% combined metal, is upgraded in one of three 30’x13’ Pier...
Namibia is a water stressed country with a limited amount of fresh water. Therefore, the use of w... more Namibia is a water stressed country with a limited amount of fresh water. Therefore, the use of water is an important topic in the country’s development agenda. Water is a shared and finite resource, with high social, cultural, environmental and economic values. However, freshwater resources are under pressure from ore processing, industrialization, urbanization and the demands of a growing population. In Namibia, ore processing, coupled with the anticipated increase in water demand for human consumption and other uses, has created significant stress on its limited water resources. This is critical in mining industry as water remains typically the prime environmental medium (besides air) that is affected by mining activities. This study sought to investigate the strides made in water management in mining, especially in environmentally sensitive areas in Namibia. Most mining companies operate adjacent to or alongside farms, national parks and fishing areas. The overall objective of t...
The Great Dyke is a mineral rich geological feature in the central part of Zimbabwe which stretch... more The Great Dyke is a mineral rich geological feature in the central part of Zimbabwe which stretches for about 550km in the SSW to NNE direction. It hosts, among other mineral resources, the second largest known resources of Platinum Group Minerals after South Africa and the largest high grade chrome ore resources in the world. These ore resources present Zimbabwe with a competitive advantage and a unique opportunity for developing world class mines and processing facilities which could form the backbone of a vibrant metallurgical and manufacturing industry. Given the growing demand for Platinum as a catalyst in reducing air pollution and in jewellery, increased production of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs), their beneficiation and value addition would provide a springboard for socio-economic development of the country.
Journal of The South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Apr 14, 2023
The depletion of the ore reserves in the world necessitates the search for secondary sources such... more The depletion of the ore reserves in the world necessitates the search for secondary sources such as waste products (tailings and slag). A smelter in Namibia has historic slag which accumulated over decades of its operating life. Analytical and mineralogical characterization of the slag was performed using the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS), ICP-OES, scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis, and optical microscopy analysis. The chemical analyses showed that the metal values contained in the slag were mainly copper, lead, and zinc whose average contents were approximately 0.3%Cu, 2.4%Pb and 3.2%Zn. About 10.5%Fe was also contained in the slag. Germanium was detected by scanning electron microscopy, but was however below detection limits of the chemical analysis equipment used. Based on the results, approximate conditions under which the different slag phases were formed were estimated and the recovery rout...
Crystals, 2021
Copper slag is generated when copper and nickel ores are recovered from their parent ores using a... more Copper slag is generated when copper and nickel ores are recovered from their parent ores using a pyrometallurgical process, and these ores usually contain other elements which include iron, cobalt, silica, and alumina. Slag is a major problem in the metallurgical industries as it is dumped into heaps which have accumulated into millions of tons over the years. Moreover, they pose a danger to the environment as they occupy vacant land (space problems). Over the past few years, studies have been conducted to investigate the copper slag-producing outlets to learn their behavior, as well as properties of slag, to have the knowledge of how to better reuse and recycle copper slag. This review article provides the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of slag, as well as a characterization of copper slag, with the aim of reusing and recycling the slag to benefit the environment and economy. Recycling methods are considered an attractive technological pathway for reducing waste and green...
Many countries in Southern Africa are generally endowed with a wealth of minerals. For example, S... more Many countries in Southern Africa are generally endowed with a wealth of minerals. For example, South Africa and Zimbabwe are host to approximately 80% of the world's Platinum Group Minerals (PGMs) and chromite resources. Vast deposits of coal, both thermal and metallurgical, occur and are mined in significant quantities in Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia. However, the region has over the years experienced a shortfall in skilled personnel as well as well-resourced training institutions to convert the comparative advantage arising from the rich mineral endowment to a competitive advantage through efficient extraction, beneficiation and value addition. In recent years, Governments in the sub-region have responded to this unfavorable situation by opening a number of universities and other tertiary institutions focussing on educating and training a new generation of mineral professionals. This study reviewed the recent developments in the region and assessed the extent to which capacity shortfalls are being addressed in the minerals sector. The methodology included questionnaires and interviews, and the analysis was mainly qualitative. The main findings of the study were that although several mineral education institutions were being opened in the region, there is an inadequate number of professionals in the mining and minerals field in the region for teaching and research, and there are few wellequipped modern facilities for teaching and research such as laboratories and lecture rooms. This situation presents an opportunity for collaborative initiatives, not only within the region but internationally, aimed at addressing these shortfalls and ensuring that appropriate skills are developed for the mining industry and also for the academic institutions.
International journal of georesources and environment
Many countries in Southern Africa are generally endowed with a wealth of minerals. For example, S... more Many countries in Southern Africa are generally endowed with a wealth of minerals. For example, South Africa and Zimbabwe are host to approximately 80% of the world's Platinum Group Minerals (PGMs) and chromite resources. Vast deposits of coal, both thermal and metallurgical, occur and are mined in significant quantities in Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia. However, the region has over the years experienced a shortfall in skilled personnel as well as well-resourced training institutions to convert the comparative advantage arising from the rich mineral endowment to a competitive advantage through efficient extraction, beneficiation and value addition. In recent years, Governments in the sub-region have responded to this unfavorable situation by opening a number of universities and other tertiary institutions focussing on educating and training a new generation of mineral professionals. This study reviewed the recent developments in the region and assessed the extent to which capacity shortfalls are being addressed in the minerals sector. The methodology included questionnaires and interviews, and the analysis was mainly qualitative. The main findings of the study were that although several mineral education institutions were being opened in the region, there is an inadequate number of professionals in the mining and minerals field in the region for teaching and research, and there are few wellequipped modern facilities for teaching and research such as laboratories and lecture rooms. This situation presents an opportunity for collaborative initiatives, not only within the region but internationally, aimed at addressing these shortfalls and ensuring that appropriate skills are developed for the mining industry and also for the academic institutions.
Geo-Resources Environment and Engineering
Namibia is known as water stressed country with a limited amount of fresh water. Therefore, the u... more Namibia is known as water stressed country with a limited amount of fresh water. Therefore, the use of water is an important topic in the country's development agenda. Water is a shared and finite resource, with high social, cultural, environmental and economic value. However, freshwater resources are under pressure from ore processing, industrialization, urbanization and the demands of a growing population. In Namibia, ore processing, coupled with the anticipated increase in water demand for human consumption and other uses, has created significant stress on the limited water resources of the country. This is critical in the mining industry as water remains typically the prime environmental medium (besides air) that is affected by mining activities. This study sought to investigate the strides made in water management in mining, especially in environmentally sensitive areas of Namibia. Most mining companies operate next or alongside farms, national parks and fishing areas. The overall objective of this research was to highlight the current practices in Namibia's mineral industry operating in environmentally sensitive areas especially in areas where uranium is being mined and processed. The methodology consisted of comprehensive literature review, field visits to the case study areas, and comparative studies with best practices. This study shows that over a ten-year period, freshwater consumption was reduced by over 55% per tonne of milled ore in uranium mines, resulting in substantive financial savings as well as the delay in water augmentation through desalination. The strategies employed by the Namibian companies involve inclusive stakeholders' engagement, recycling and reuse, and the minimization of water losses. The realization that the water challenge cannot be solved by any one party acting alone has been fundamental in ensuring environmental compliance within the mining industry in Namibia. Namibia's industrial leaders have increasingly recognized that reducing the water footprint of mining activities must be one of the key performance indicators for management. The major finding of this study was that Namibia with its unique ecosystems, mineral reserves, and emerging industries can harness a wide range of resources both to improve the welfare of its citizens and to protect the integrity of its environment.
The Extractive Industries and Society
The divergence between the mining industry's business-case decisions and key stakeholder expectat... more The divergence between the mining industry's business-case decisions and key stakeholder expectations, both local and global, is complex. The objective of this paper is to examine the approach of mining companies to the concept of Social License to Operate (SLO), with a focus on the African continent. A background to the concept of SLO was outlined. An inextricable link between the African business context and the approach that mining companies adopt in fulfilling an extremely cosmetic process was proffered. The key issues defining the African context, namely corruption, conflict, human rights, weak institutions, artisanal and small-scale mining amongst others were interrogated within the mining industry context and further related to the concept of SLO by identifying specific examples. The paper further identifies the key differences in the approach to SLO and examines some underlying reasons. Finally, the paper proposes some interventions that the mining industry can adopt in order to gain the SLO in Africa. The proposed interventions were premised on genuine engagement with all relevant stakeholders as opposed to tick-box exercises. One of the key pillars identified to unlock this licence was through strengthening and building upstream, downstream and side-stream linkages between local suppliers and the mining industry.
Journal- South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
The mining industry worldwide is facing a tremendous shortage of minerals engineers in all fields... more The mining industry worldwide is facing a tremendous shortage of minerals engineers in all fields of specialization. For instance, in Australia the skills shortage in the mining industry has been identified as one of the top risks facing the mining industry. In Namibia most minerals engineers employed are expatriates, with some being Namibians who studied abroad. The minerals engineering programmes at the Polytechnic of Namibia are still in their infancy. These programmes were designed to meet the mining industry skills needs. Being young has its advantages in that lessons can be learnt from older minerals education institutions that went through similar challenges. However, this does not imply just copying and implementing their approaches, since the context differs and, to ensure sustainability of the minerals education programmes, curricula have to be customized to the local context. This paper reviews the interventions made by the Polytechnic of Namibia in order to ensure the su...
Journal- South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
The mining industry worldwide is facing a tremendous shortage of minerals engineers in all fields... more The mining industry worldwide is facing a tremendous shortage of minerals engineers in all fields of specialization. For instance, in Australia the skills shortage in the mining industry has been identified as one of the top risks facing the mining industry. In Namibia most minerals engineers employed are expatriates, with some being Namibians who studied abroad. The minerals engineering programmes at the Polytechnic of Namibia are still in their infancy. These programmes were designed to meet the mining industry skills needs. Being young has its advantages in that lessons can be learnt from older minerals education institutions that went through similar challenges. However, this does not imply just copying and implementing their approaches, since the context differs and, to ensure sustainability of the minerals education programmes, curricula have to be customized to the local context. This paper reviews the interventions made by the Polytechnic of Namibia in order to ensure the su...