Kunene's mineral wealth holds the promise of jobs, income and better livelihoods. But for small-scale miners, turning that promise into reality remains a struggle.

At the Mining Summit in Opuwo, miners welcomed the chance to meet investors and government officials, hoping the engagement will open doors to better equipment, fair prices and stronger businesses.

Minerals extracted carry the hope of feeding families and improving livelihoods. But a lack of equipment, limited access to APL holders and low prices continue to hold back small-scale miners.

Board Member of KUSSMA, Lucrasia Ruiter, stated, "Most of these resources are unaffordable for our people, who are already struggling. Some miners are forced to stop digging when they encounter hard rock because they lack the equipment to continue."

Miners say getting minerals out of the ground is only part of the challenge. They also want fair prices and opportunities to add value to their products before selling them.

"If the government thinks about us, they should have a meeting with these Chinese people. If they have rights and set a standard price, Chinese are the ones who are exploiting us. They don't like us; they come to your small mine claiming they want a contract, saying that 90% belong to them and give you 5% or 2%," said Representative of Ouua Nomake Mining Investment Ronny Tjihange.

Tjihange says he believes that working together could give miners a stronger voice in the market.

The impact extends beyond the miners themselves, as the income generated from their operations helps support their employees and several families.

"I employ six people, but the income we earn is very little. We share what we receive from the Chinese buyers who exploit us to support our families," said miner Ipaheua Muhenje.

With better cooperation, fair prices and access to equipment, small-scale miners believe they can expand their businesses, create more jobs and support more families. They hope Kunene's mineral wealth will bring lasting economic opportunities to the people who depend on it for their livelihoods.