Mining-rights regulations

What holders and investors should know in the six countries OreBridge operates in.

This page is a plain-language summary for information only — it is not legal advice and is not exhaustive. Mining law changes often and several of these rules are under active revision. Before listing a project, investing, or completing any transfer, get advice from a lawyer licensed in the relevant country. Last reviewed: September 2026.

Governing law

Minerals (Prospecting and Mining) Act 33 of 1992 (as amended in 2008), administered by the Ministry of Mines and Energy (Mining Commissioner's office).

Licence types

Reconnaissance Licence (6 months, cannot be renewed), Non-Exclusive Prospecting Licence, Exclusive Prospecting Licence (EPL — 3 years, renewable twice for 2 years each, so 7 years without special Ministerial approval), Mining Claims (reserved for Namibian citizens, maximum 10 claims per person/company, 3 years + 2-year renewals), Mining Licence (up to 25 years, renewable for 15-year periods), and a Mineral Deposit Retention Licence for deposits not yet ready to mine.

Transfers

Both EPLs and mining claims require a specific transfer application to the Ministry, and a change of holder is not effective until approved.

Foreign ownership

No blanket ban on foreign EPL holders, but a foreign applicant must first register a Namibian company through BIPA (Business and Intellectual Property Authority). Mining claims are restricted to Namibian citizens only.

Environment

An Environmental Clearance Certificate from the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism is required before mining claims or licences can be worked.

This summary is for information only and is not legal advice. Rules change; verify the current position with a lawyer licensed in the relevant country before acting.

Questions about a specific project? Contact the team →