THE MAYOR OF ARANDIS DELIVERS KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT VALENCIA URANIUM’S FIRST BLAST

The Mayor of Arandis, His Worship Risto Kapendah, delivered a keynote address this morning of the 1st August 2024 at the historic first blast of the Valencia Uranium Mine. The event took place at Valencia, located approximately 25 kilometres north-east of the Rössing Uranium Mine, east of the Khan River.

In his address, Cllr. Kapendah highlighted the significant impact the mine is expected to have on the local economy and community. He emphasized the potential for Arandis to become a central hub for the Valencia Uranium Mine’s workforce. “Considering that the mine will employ over 1,000 staff members, my hope is to see Arandis town housing Valencia Uranium Mine employees and the buses driving in our streets transporting employees,” he stated. “Valencia Uranium Mine is strategically located near our town, less than 50 kilometres away. As a council, Arandis endeavours to provide our mine fraternity with affordable land for residential purposes in our housing project policy.”

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Honourable Tjekero Tweya – Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources, and Mr. Penda Iithindi, the Executive Director in the Ministry of Mines and Energy. The Honourable Governor of the Mighty Erongo Region, Andre Neville Itope, was represented in absentia.

Also in attendance were His Worship Cllr David A,-!Gabeb, Deputy Mayor of Swakopmund Municipality; Mr. Pine Van Wyk, Director and Country Manager of Valencia Uranium; Chief Inspector M.T. Nghipandulwa, Head of Explosives Control Sub-division; and Mr. Hafeni Hiveluah, Principal Consultant and Founder of Hiveluah Consult, who served as the director of proceedings.

The first blast at Valencia Uranium marks a pivotal moment for the region, promising economic growth and development. Honourable Kapendah’s remarks underscored the importance of collaboration between the mine and the town of Arandis, particularly in ensuring affordable housing and infrastructural support for the mine’s workforce.