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Finnish expertise finds new ground in Namibia’s mining sector

01.09.2025

Finnish momentum is building in Namibia. The international demand for Finnish companies’ expertise in areas such as technology, sustainable development, and education is growing, and Namibia’s mining industry offers diverse opportunities for business expansion.

In early August, seven Finnish companies travelled to Namibia to explore the country’s expanding and evolving mining sector. Mining is a cornerstone of Namibia’s economy, and its importance is increasing in light of the global green transition. The country is rich in resources including uranium, gold, diamonds, and rare earth metals.

During the event week, Finnish companies had the chance to network and showcase their expertise. The programme included site visits to Andrada Mining and B2Gold operations, where the delegation witnessed firsthand the opportunities and collaboration potential within Namibia’s mining sector.

Successful meetings on all levels

Dewaco Oy, a Finnish manufacturer of water and wastewater treatment equipment, joined the trip to familiarise itself with Namibia’s operating environment and key stakeholders. The market was relatively unfamiliar to the company.

“The arrangements exceeded all expectations. Most meetings were highly relevant to us, and there was ample time for discussions. We were even able to add an important meeting with a potential partner I met at the expo. Meetings were organised at all levels – with facilities, potential partners, government representatives, and municipalities,” said Dewaco CEO Riku Granberg.

Growing Finnish momentum in Namibia

During the week, Finnish companies also networked with Namibian stakeholders at the Mining Expo. This year’s theme was “Mining for Namibia’s Future: Job Creation, Local Empowerment, and Economic Transformation.” The Finnish delegation attended presentations on the role of mining in Namibia’s development, its impact on local communities, and how the sector can enhance economic inclusion and empowerment.

The expo also provided Finnish companies with the opportunity to engage with other exhibitors and discuss the potential for collaboration and growth within Namibia’s mining industry.

Discussions between Finnish and local stakeholders—both at the expo and in separate meetings—clearly demonstrated a strong interest in cooperation and a high demand for Finnish mining expertise.

“The expo was a fantastic opportunity to explore the latest innovations, connect with industry professionals, and gain new insights into Namibia’s mining sector,” said Marnus Kruger from Nokia, who participated in the trip.

Finnpartnership Programme Officer Ville Jokinen, who visited Namibia’s mining sector for the second time, noted clear progress over the past two years.

“Having attended the same event two years ago, I can confidently say that development has taken place. Even the extension of the expo from two to three days speaks volumes. Feedback from companies also indicates that Namibia is now much more ready for collaboration in the mining sector. The momentum is definitely right for Finnish companies!”

Finnpartnership’s Business Partnership Officer Topi Hukkanen added:
“I was also intrigued by the sustainability perspectives of Namibian stakeholders. We gained insight into how biodiversity is maintained in mining areas and the visions for life after extraction. These are extremely important considerations.”

Promising outcomes

The trip was a success, generating new openings for leveraging Finnish expertise and fostering long-term partnerships. Finnpartnership continues to support companies in building bridges and connecting Finnish strengths with emerging markets.

Topi Hukkanen summarised:
“The entire journey left a positive impression: Namibia could be an excellent place for Finnish expertise and long-term collaboration. Initiatives for new projects in Namibia are already underway, and Finnpartnership is keen to support bridge-building efforts. When Finnish and emerging market companies meet and join forces, great things often happen—and this trip was a prime example. More inspiring visits and sustainable, partnership-driven business ventures lie ahead, across sectors and around the world.”