QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine is taking important steps toward establishing underground mining operations as part of its long-term strategy to sustain and expand production.
Following a successful trial mining phase and encouraging geological results, the mine has advanced with underground development aimed at unlocking additional mineral resources that cannot be economically extracted through open-pit methods.
Underground Mining Project Manager Venancio Guchu said the current phase focuses on creating access for exploration drilling and gathering critical geological data to inform future mining decisions.
“QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine is currently assessing the potential for a full underground mining operation following a successful trial mining phase conducted a few years ago. The geological continuity and geotechnical evaluations produced encouraging results,” said Guchu.
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 long-term growth opportunities for the mine.
Safety is a key priority for the project, with strict underground safety protocols, controlled blasting methods and continuous geotechnical monitoring in place to ensure safe working conditions.
“We continue to conduct geotechnical drilling and analysis to ensure that our underground designs remain safe and reliable. By maintaining a continuous focus 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.
