The Sinomine Tsumeb Smelter has announced the commencement of the construction of the first Germanium production.

The announcement was made by Sinomine Executive Vice President Barcelona Tsauses during the donation handover of N$100 000 to the Oshikoto Regional Governor's Office at Omuthiya.

With an amount of 4 billion invested into the production, Tsauses says 1 600 will be created, while Sinomine will increase its workforce from 350 to 580 permanent staff.

"Our purpose moving forward is to produce germanium from old stock, which was part of the waste that was generated when the copper was mined or produced within Tsumeb. We will be finishing with construction towards the end of next year and starting with an operation of the plant in early 2028. So, Germanium being a critical metal, it's valuable in terms of fibre optic uses and various technologies as well. It is going to be the first germanium plant in Namibia, which provides Namibia with global positioning because of this technology."

The plant promotes skills transfer while delivering both economic and environmental benefits.

The Executive Vice President of Sinomine Tsumeb Smelter, Barcelona Troubles, said:

"Progressively we are tracking how the construction is going, and the milestones are definitely showing. The benefit of this Germanium plant is not just a realisation of the final product, which is valuable for our economy. One of the biggest drivers and the benefits for this project is that it helps us to clean our environment. The plant is designed considering all air quality emissions that will take place in terms of water resources that could potentially be compromised normally in mining activities. Making sure the air will be safe."

The construction is expected to conclude towards the end of next year.

Oshikoto Governor Sacky Kathindi welcomed the contribution from the Sinomine Tsumeb Smelter, saying it will help the government address community needs.

"This contribution is more than a financial commitment, it demonstrates your willingness to partner with the government and to contribute towards the development and wellbeing of our communities."