QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine recently announced significant progress in its development to establish an underground mining operation.
According to the mine, the announcement was made following a successful trial mining phase and positive geopolitical results. The development is expected to unlock additional mineral resources that cannot be economically mined through open-pit methods, QKR stated.
Underground Mining Project Manager, Venancio Guchu, said the current phase of development is focused on creating access for exploration drilling and to gather critical geological data required for future mining decisions.
“QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine is currently assessing the potential for a full underground mining operation following a successful trail mining phase conducted a few years ago. The geological continuity and geotechnical evaluations produced encouraging results,” said Guchu.
The mine noted that underground work is concentrated on the Main Shoot and North Shoot mineralised zones located north of the existing open pits. The orebody remains open at depth, indicating further exploration potential and future growth opportunities for the mine.
To ensure working conditions underground, the mine has implemented strict underground safety measures, including controlled blasting methods and continuous geotechnical monitoring.
“We continue to conduct geotechnical drilling and analysis to ensure that our underground designs remain safe and reliable. By continuously focusing on safety, we ensure that underground operations are carefully managed and that employees are always protected,’ Guchu added.
QKR further confirmed that development activities are progressing steadily, with approximately 390 metres completed along the Main Shoot decline. The first blast for the current phase was carried out in December last year, while exploration drilling is expected to commence during the third quarter of 2026.
The mine said that through a partnership with underground mining contractor Byrnecut, it is employing 58 nationals, including 30 from the Karibib area where the mine is located.
