Namibia to construct 2nd desalination plant in ’25

Namibia will start constructing its second desalination plant in January 2025, with completion expected by early 2027, according to Agriculture Minister Calle Schlettwein. The 20-million-cubic-metre capacity plant has been planned since 1998.

Facing its worst drought in over a century, Namibia, the world’s third-largest uranium producer, is experiencing increased water demand due to a surge in uranium mining and plans for green hydrogen production. Mines in the Erongo region currently rely on limited undergroundwater and the Orano Desalination Plant.

Schlettwein highlighted that increased development, mining, and industrial activities have exceeded current water supply capacities.

Bank of Namibia warns that the drought and coastal water supply issues pose risks to Namibia’s projected 3.7 per cent economic growth in 2024. In May, President Nangolo Mbumba declared a national state of emergency due to the drought.

Attribution: Reuters citing Namibia’s Agriculture Minister.