In a resolute maiden address to Parliament last week, newly appointed Deputy Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy Gaudentia Kröhne declared that Namibia’s mineral wealth must serve as a catalyst for equitable growth, ensuring both investors and local communities reap sustainable benefits. Kröhne, deputizing Minister Natangwe Ithete, emphasized that responsible resource management, industrial innovation, and renewable energy expansion are pivotal to transforming the nation’s economic landscape.
“As a member of this august House and deputy minister, I shall work closely with stakeholders to promote responsible mining practices that benefit both investors and local communities,” Kröhne asserted, underscoring her commitment to aligning industrial, mining, and energy policies with Namibia’s sustainable development goals. Her speech struck a balance between attracting foreign investment and prioritizing grassroots empowerment, signaling a shift toward policies that demand more than mere resource extraction.
“Namibia is blessed with vast mineral resources and an emerging energy sector that holds great promise. However, it is not enough to simply extract these resources. We must ensure that they contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said. Highlighting persistent challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, poverty, and inequality, Kröhne stressed the urgency of building a resilient economy. “Our vision must be directed to creating a sustainable economy that will counter national and international challenges,” she added.
Central to her strategy is enhancing local value-addition and beneficiation to maximize economic returns from Namibia’s mineral reserves. By processing raw materials domestically rather than exporting them unrefined, the deputy minister aims to create jobs, stimulate secondary industries, and retain more wealth within the country. This approach, she argued, would help dismantle cycles of dependency on foreign markets and ensure Namibians directly benefit from their natural endowments.
Kröhne also pledged to accelerate Namibia’s renewable energy transition, citing the dual imperatives of combating climate change and improving electricity access. With over half of Namibia’s population still lacking reliable power, she vowed to bolster investments in solar, wind, and green hydrogen projects. “Improving energy access is not just about infrastructure—it’s about empowering households, schools, clinics, and businesses to thrive,” she said, framing renewable energy as a cornerstone of inclusive development.
The deputy minister’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy, which recently expanded its mandate to include industrialization—a priority Kröhne described as “essential for economic growth.” She emphasized that fostering local manufacturing and supporting small businesses are key to reducing import dependence and building self-sufficiency. “Industrial growth is a key driver of economic resilience. We must foster an environment where Namibian businesses can thrive,” she stated.
Kröhne’s vision extends beyond traditional mining sectors. By integrating industrial policy with energy innovation, she aims to position Namibia as a regional leader in sustainable development. This includes creating enabling environments for startups and enterprises to experiment with green technologies, as well as streamlining regulations to attract ethical investors committed to community upliftment.
Her message resonated with calls for greater accountability in the extractive industries, where concerns over revenue leakage and environmental degradation have long fueled public discontent. Kröhne acknowledged these grievances, affirming that transparency and community engagement would underpin her ministry’s operations. “Resource extraction should never come at the cost of environmental integrity or social justice. The well-being of our people and their lands is non-negotiable,” she said.
As her deputy ministerial role overlaps with Ithete’s duties as deputy prime minister, Kröhne’s success hinges on cross-sector collaboration. She expressed optimism about partnering with traditional leaders, civil society, and the private sector to design policies that reflect local needs. “Sustainable development cannot be achieved in isolation. It requires unity of purpose and shared sacrifice,” she noted.
For many observers, Kröhne’s appointment signals a renewed focus on economic justice amid global pressures. Namibia, despite its mineral riches, remains plagued by stark income inequality and unemployment rates exceeding 20%. Her emphasis on grassroots beneficiation and renewable energy aligns with the Harambee Prosperity Plan II’s goals, which prioritize wealth redistribution and green industrialization.
Yet challenges loom. Global commodity price fluctuations, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and infrastructure gaps could hinder progress. Kröhne’s ability to navigate these hurdles while maintaining investor confidence will test her leadership. Nevertheless, her inaugural speech struck a hopeful tone, envisioning a Namibia where natural resources fuel shared prosperity rather than division.
“The Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy exists to promote sustainable social and economic development by fostering an enabling environment that benefits all Namibians,” Kröhne concluded. “This is not just a mandate—it is a moral obligation to our children and the generations yet unborn.”
As she steps into her role, stakeholders await tangible reforms. For now, Kröhne’s promise of a balanced, inclusive approach offers a blueprint for turning Namibia’s subterranean wealth into a beacon of hope above ground.