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Husab Uranium Mine
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The Husab Uranium Mine is one of Namibia's most significant industrial projects, situated in the Namib Desert within the Erongo Region. Development followed the discovery of vast deposits in 2008, with official production commencing in 2016. Husab is ranked as one of the largest uranium mines globally, possessing the capacity to produce approximately 15 million pounds of uranium oxide annually. The project is operated by Swakop Uranium, a joint venture significantly involving the Chinese state-owned CGN. The investment for the mine's construction exceeded 2 billion USD, marking it as one of the largest single investments in Namibia's history. Geologically, it is a hydrothermal deposit extracted through open-pit mining methods. The mine plays a pivotal role in the strategic partnership between China and Namibia in the mining sector, contributing heavily to exports.
- Location: Namibia
- Top sights: Welwitschia Drive Beacon 12 · Welwitschia Drive Beacon 11
- Nearby: Arandis (27 km)
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Husab Uranium Mine is one of the largest uranium mines globally, significantly contributing to Namibia's export revenues. For visitors, it exemplifies the country's important mining sector.
Visiting
The mine is generally not open to the public as it is an active mining site. It can be viewed from a safe distance from the nearby main road.
Where to view it
The best public viewpoint is on the main road passing the mine, where the large open-pit craters and processing plants are visible. Photography is usually allowed, but entering the site is not.
Local products
Uranium ore is mined but not available for travelers to purchase. Local craft markets in the area offer traditional Namibian goods such as wood carvings and jewelry.
Active season
The mine operates in shifts year-round, with increased activity during the dry season (May to October) due to better working conditions. Maintenance work typically occurs in the cooler months.
Nearby
Combine the mine visit with a safari in nearby Etosha National Park or a tour of Swakopmund town. The region also gives opportunities to view other mines and mining projects.
Geography
Facts
- Official uranium production commenced in December 2016
- Total investment costs exceeded 2 billion USD
- Operated by Swakop Uranium, a joint venture with CGN
- Planned annual production capacity of 15 million pounds
- The massive uranium deposits were discovered in 2008
- World's second-largest uranium mine by production capacity
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Husab Uranium Mine (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Husab Uranium Mine?
A vast, modern uranium mine in the Namib Desert, near the Rössing mine.
Is it open to tourists?
No, it is a purely industrial, active site with no tourism.
How big is the site?
It is one of the world's largest uranium deposits with a massive open pit.
Is there a visitor center?
There is no visitor center for the public.
Why is it important for Namibia?
It contributes massively to the country's export volume and GDP.
Husab Uranium Mine: where is it located?
Husab Uranium Mine is located in Namibia.
Husab Uranium Mine: what is there to see?
Highlights include Welwitschia Drive Beacon 12, Welwitschia Drive Beacon 11.
Husab Uranium Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Husab Uranium Mine is one of Namibia's most significant industrial projects, situated in the Namib Desert within the Erongo Region.
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