Agriculture ministry unopposed to uranium mining at Leonardville

By Ellen Shihepo, via News on One 

The Ministry of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform (MAWLR) does not oppose uranium mining by Rosatom’s Uranium1 in Leonardville.

Agriculture Minister Carl Schlettwein, however, emphasised the need for further research before drilling can be approved.

Schlettwein, during a community engagement in Leonardville this week, acknowledged the potential economic benefits that uranium mining could bring to the region.

However, the ministry’s lack of expertise can only approve drilling permits with a comprehensive risk assessment of the potential contamination of underground water during the exploration.

Schlettwein said the decision would be made based on scientific evidence.

“We are not against developing these economic possibilities, but we must ensure they don’t jeopardise a principal enabler of life.

“We must ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to protect our water resources,” said Schlettwein.

Schlettwein highlighted the importance of diversifying agricultural practices in the Omaheke region to address the ongoing drought.

He urged local farmers to explore various agricultural opportunities to build resilience against climate-related impacts.