National Policy on Prospecting and Mining in Protected Areas (2018-2022) .

The National Policy on Prospecting and Mining in Protected Areas (2018-2022) aims to guide decision-making regarding exploration and mining activities within protected areas. This Policy, emphasizes the importance of balancing economic growth with the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services. The Policy outlines the need for strong frameworks and tools to improve decision-making and protect biodiversity, ecosystem services, and cultural heritage from development impacts. It identifies key ecological and culturally sensitive areas within Namibia's protected areas and proposes the development of a Decision Support Tool to aid in the issuance of exploration and mining licenses. The Policy also highlights the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration and coordination to support integrated and sustainable development planning. Implementation of the policy involves a Technical Committee led by MET and MME, responsible for regular monitoring and evaluation. The policy mandates the development of specific Memoranda of Understanding between prospecting and mining companies and the ministries to detail implementation mechanisms and rehabilitation obligations. The Policy also addresses resource mobilization, advocating for government allocation, donor funding, and strategic partnerships to support implementation. Monitoring and evaluation frameworks are established, requiring regular environmental audits and reports from companies operating within protected areas.