Navachab studies US$400m plant expansion to lift gold output to 230,000 oz
The proposed investment in Namibia could double mining rates and increase annual gold production by up to 60%, subject to the outcome of the expansion study and an investment decision
Navachab Gold Mine in Namibia is studying a proposed US$400 million processing-plant expansion that could increase annual gold production to between 220,000 and 230,000 ounces, as the operation seeks to improve productivity and extend its growth potential.
The proposed N$6.67 billion investment would include a flotation plant with a processing capacity of 1,000 tonnes per hour. The expansion study indicates that the project could increase annual mining rates from approximately 30 million tonnes to between 60 million and 65 million tonnes.
According to recent reports on the mine’s development plans, the estimated capital expenditure excludes the mining fleet. The proposed expansion remains under study, with the production and mining-rate figures representing potential outcomes rather than approved targets.
The expansion forms part of Navachab’s efforts to improve the performance of its established open-pit operation near Karibib, in Namibia’s Erongo Region.
The mine, which began commercial production in 1989, recorded its highest annual gold production in 2025, producing 4,067kg, up from 3,902kg in 2024. Mining production reached 21.1 million tonnes during the year.
Navachab managing director George Botshiwe said the operation was focused on improving its performance while preparing for future development.
“Those are technical names for a practical task – improving how safely and efficiently we mine and process the resource,” Botshiwe told the Windhoek Obsever, referring to the technical work underpinning the mine’s operational improvements.
The proposed flotation project is intended to increase the volume of gold recovered from the operation. The expansion study indicates that annual production could rise from the current estimated range of 140,000 to 150,000 ounces to between 220,000 and 230,000 ounces.
