0 ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A TANTALITE MINE

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF A TANTALITE MINE, SOUTHERN

Impala Consultancy

112 Robert Mugabe Ave, 061301936 / 0856630598 [email protected] www.impalac.com

Compiled by: Mr. N Amutenya Prepared for: Orange River Pegmatite (Pty) Ltd

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. Introduction

1.1 Overview

The proponent, Orange River Pegmatite (Pty) Ltd (ORP), intends to apply for a 313- hectare mining licence and set up a mining operation in an area consisting of 15 mineralized pegmatites with viable concentrations of tantalite.

Impala Consultancy was appointed by the proponent to undertake an Environmental Assessment (EA) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the mineral exploration project.

1.2 Location

The proposed mining area is located 30 km southwest of Warmbad and occurs on the farm Kinderzit 132. The coordinates for the center of the proposed mining area 18°39'51.046"E and 28°41'19.388"S.

1.3 Environmental Assessment Requirements

The Environmental Regulations procedure (GN 30 of 2012) stipulates that no mining activities may be undertaken without an environmental clearance certificate. As such, an environmental clearance certificate must be applied for in accordance with regulation 6 of the 2012 environmental regulations. It is imperative that the environmental proponent must conduct a public consultation process in accordance with regulation 21 of the 2012 environmental procedure, produce an environmental scoping report and submit an Environmental Management Plan for the proposed mining activities.

1.4 Project Alternatives

The proposed project has the potential to be a significant foreign exchange contributor to Namibia. In addition, the proposed mine will be a significant employer in the area and will uplift the standards of living of the people from the surrounding communities.

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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF A TANTALITE MINE, SOUTHERN NAMIBIA

FINAL SCOPING REPORT

Table of Contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 1 1. Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Overview ...... 1 1.2 Location ...... 1 1.3 Environmental Assessment Requirements ...... 1 1.4 Project Alternatives ...... 1 1. Project Background ...... 6 1.1 Introduction ...... 6 1.2 Project Location ...... 7 1.3 Environmental Impact Assessment Requirements ...... 11 1.4 Purpose of the Scoping Report ...... 11 1.5 Project Alternatives ...... 11 2. Summary of applicable legislation ...... 12 2.1 Environmental Management Act of 2007 ...... 12 2.2 The Minerals Prospecting and Mining Act of 1992 ...... 12 2.3 Water Resources Management Act of 2004 ...... 12 2.4 Nature conservation ordinance, ordinance No. 4 of 1975 ...... 13 2.5 National Heritage Act, 2004 (Act No. 27 of 2004) ...... 13 2.6 Petroleum Products and Energy Act No. 13 of 1990 ...... 13 2.7 Forest Act, No. 12 of 2001 ...... 14 2.8 Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Ordinance (1976) ...... 14 2.9 Hazardous Substance Ordinance, No. 14 of 1974 ...... 15 2.10 Namibian Water Corporation (Act 12 of 1997) ...... 15 3. Description of the Proposed Tantalite Mining Project ...... 16 3.1 Introduction ...... 16 3.2 Mining Method ...... 17 3.3 Labour Requirements...... 19

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3.4 Waste Dumps ...... 20 3.5 Services ...... 20 3.5.1 Electricity requirements...... 20 3.5.2 Water Supply ...... 21 3.6 Infrastructure ...... 21 3.6.1 Refuse and waste removal ...... 21 3.6.2 IT Systems and communication ...... 22 3.6.3 Security and Fencing ...... 22 3.6.4 Buildings and Offices ...... 22 3.6.5 Roads ...... 22 3.6.6 Mobile Equipment ...... 23 3.6.7 Storage of Fuel, Lubrication and consumables ...... 23 3.6.8 Fire Fighting Provision ...... 23 4. Description of the Current Environment ...... 24 4.1 Introduction ...... 24 4.2 Climatic Conditions ...... 24 4.2.1 Temperature ...... 24 4.2.2 Precipitation ...... 25 4.2.3 Wind ...... 26 4.2.4 Humidity ...... 27 4.3 Geology ...... 28 4.3.1 Regional Geology ...... 28 4.3.1 Local Geology ...... 29 4.4 Hydrogeology and Water Resources ...... 31 4.5 Flora ...... 33 4.6 Fauna ...... 34 4.6.1 Introduction ...... 34 4.6.2 Amphibians ...... 35 4.6.3 Mammals ...... 36 4.6.4 Reptiles ...... 37 4.7 Avifauna (Birds) ...... 37 4.8 Archaeology ...... 38 4.9 Socio-Economic Environment ...... 38 4.9.1 Overview of the surrounding settlements ...... 38

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4.9.2 Social Economic Impact...... 38 5. Assessment of Impacts ...... 40 5.1. Overall socio-economic benefits and issues ...... 41 5.1.1. Socio-economic benefits ...... 41 5.2. Mining phases and associated issues ...... 43 5.2.1. Commencement Phase of the Project ...... 43 5.2.2. Operational phase of the Project ...... 44 6. Environmental Management Plan ...... 48 6.1 Overview ...... 48 6.2 Environmental Management Principles ...... 48 6.3 Impacts on the Bio-physical Environment ...... 50 6.3.1 Impacts on Archaeological Sites ...... 50 6.3.2 Impacts on Fauna ...... 51 6.3.3 Impacts on Avifauna ...... 51 6.3.4 Impact on Vegetation ...... 52 6.3.5 Impacts of Alien invasive Plants ...... 52 6.3.6 Impacts on Socio-Economic ...... 53 6.3.7 Visual Impacts ...... 53 6.3.8 Use of Natural Resources ...... 54 6.3.9 Generation of Solid Waste ...... 54 6.3.10 Noise ...... 54 6.3.11 Air Quality ...... 54 6.4 Summary of Environmental Management Plan during commencement, operation and decommissioning phases ...... 55 6.5 Monitoring, Auditing and Reporting ...... 59 6.5.1 Inspections and Audits ...... 59 6.5.2 Environmental Management System Framework ...... 60 7. Public Participation Process ...... 63 8. Conclusion ...... 65 9. References ...... 67 Appendix A ...... 68 Appendix B ...... 75

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List of Figures

Figure 1 Locality Map of the Project Area ...... 7 Figure 2 Locality map of the proposed mining licence area ...... 8 Figure 3 Satellite imagery showing the orientation of the proposed mining licence area...... 9 Figure 4 Farms surrounding the mining area...... 10 Figure 5 Image of a pegmatite on site which hosts tantalite minerals...... 16 Figure 6 Map indicating the localities of the 17 pegmatites (> 1m thick) ...... 17 Figure 7 3D model of the 17 pegmatites – Swanson Pegmatite Swarm...... 18 Figure 8 An image of the proposed tantalite mining site...... 19 Figure 10 A graph showing the temperature patterns in Warmbad, from www.worldweatheronline.com ...... 25 Figure 11 A graph showing rainfall patterns in Warmbad, from www.worldweatheronline.com ...... 26 Figure 12 A graph showing windspeed patterns in Warmbad, from www.worldweatheronline.com ...... 27 Figure 13 A graph showing the humidity patterns in Warmbad, from www.worldweatheronline.com ...... 28 Figure 14 A geological map of the area ...... 30 Figure 15 A map showing the flow of rivers in the vicinity of the project area...... 31 Figure 16 A map showing the grounwater flow in the area and the locality of known aquifers in the area...... 32

List of Tables

Table 1 A table showing the number of personnel that will be employed by the mine...... 19 Table 2 A table showing plant species which are likely to occur in the area ...... 33 Table 3 Table of plant species which are protected under the Forestry Act and likely to occur in the area...... 34 Table 4 A list of amphibian species which may occur in the project area ...... 35 Table 5 Mammal species which are likely to occur within the project area...... 36 Table 6 Protected reptile species in the project area ...... 37 Table 7 Assessment methodology used to examine the impacts identified...... 40 Table 8 Impact evaluation for socio-economy ...... 42 Table 9 Impact evaluation for the commencement phase of the project ...... 44 Table 10 Impact evaluation for the operational phase of the project ...... 47

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1. Project Background

1.1 Introduction

The proponent, Orange River Pegmatite (Pty) Ltd (ORP), intends to apply for a 313- hectare mining licence and set up a mining operation in an area consisting of 15 mineralized pegmatites with viable concentrations of tantalite. The proposed area is located within the boundaries of the Exclusive Prospecting Licence 5047, which is owned by ORP. The proponent is represented by shareholders and a management team of individuals that are very experienced in the mining industry. In addition, the largest shareholder is a company named Raubex Ltd., a JSE listed company, with substantial shareholding owned by Namibian individuals.

The proposed project will primarily produce the minerals tantalite and niobium with the potential to also produce lithium minerals and feldspar. Tantalite and niobium are both new technology metals with extensive applications in a growing world market. During the initial exploration phase, a resource of 1,7 million tons of ore was delineated with an average grade of 525ppm Ta2O5, at a minimum cut-off grade at 300ppm Ta2O5. The indicated resource will be enough to support a 17-year mining operation, with the first 6 years being represented by lower cost, open cast mining operation. The total life of mine, including establishment 1 year and rehabilitation 2 years would be 20 years. The envisaged plant will consist of a crushing and milling unit, gravity separation processes and final magnetic upgrading to produce a marketable tantalite concentrate.

Although mining is costly, environmentally friendly mining is a cornerstone, yet the mining process must never be at the expense of people or the environment. Orange River Pegmatite (Pty) Ltd believes that social and environmental responsibility is a prerequisite for providing a conducive environment for mineral mining activities.

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1.2 Project Location

The proposed mining area is located 30 km southwest of Warmbad and occurs on the farm Kinderzit 132 (The farm is in the Karas Region near the South African border, approximately 15km to the north of the Orange River (Figure 4). The coordinates for the center of the proposed mining area 18°39'51.046"E and 28°41'19.388"S.

Figure 1 Locality Map of the Project Area

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Figure 2 Locality map of the proposed mining licence area 9 ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A TANTALITE MINE

Figure 3 Satellite imagery showing the orientation of the proposed mining licence area. 10 ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A TANTALITE MINE

Figure 4 Farms surrounding the mining area.

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1.3 Environmental Impact Assessment Requirements

The Environmental Regulations procedure (GN 30 of 2012) stipulates that no mining activities may be undertaken without an environmental clearance certificate. As such, an environmental clearance certificate must be applied for in accordance with regulation 6 of the 2012 environmental regulations. It is imperative that the environmental proponent must conduct a public consultation process in accordance with regulation 21 of the 2012 environmental procedure, produce an environmental scoping report and submit an Environmental Management Plan for the proposed mining activities.

1.4 Purpose of the Scoping Report

The scoping report is prepared for the Environmental Impact Assessment for the development of a mining operation in an area consisting of 15 mineralized pegmatites with viable concentrations of tantalite. Environmental scoping is a critical step in the preparation of an EIA for the proposed mining activities. The scoping process identifies the issues that are likely to be most important during the EIA and eliminates those that are of little concern. The scoping process shall be concluded with the establishment of terms of reference for the preparation of an EIA, as set out by the Ministry of Environment and tourism. The purpose of this scoping report is to:

• Identify any important environmental issues to be considered before commencing with the mining activities in the mining licence area.

• To identify appropriate time and space boundaries of the EIA study.

• To identify information required for decision-making.

As such, the key objectives of this scoping study are to:

• Inform the public about the proposed tantalite mining activities.

• Identify the main stakeholders, their comments and concerns.

• Define reasonable and practical alternatives to the proposal.

• To establish the terms of reference for an EIA study.

1.5 Project Alternatives

The proposed project has the potential to be a significant foreign exchange

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contributor to Namibia. In addition, the proposed mine will be a significant employer in the area and will uplift the standards of living of the people from the surrounding communities. The area is currently being used for small livestock farming and tourism. Although farming and tourism may generate revenue for the government and provide employment to a few individuals, they may not have a significant impact on the surrounding community in comparison to the tantalite mining project. Except for management and technical personnel, the proposed project will mostly employ locals from nearby towns and settlements.

2. Summary of applicable legislation

All mineral rights, related to mining activities in Namibia, are regulated by the Ministry of Mines and Energy whereas the environmental regulations are regulated by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. The acts that affect the implementation, operation and management of tantalite mining activities in Namibia are shown below.

2.1 Environmental Management Act of 2007

Line Ministry: Ministry of Environment and Tourism The regulations that accompany this act lists a of activities that may not be undertaken without an environmental clearance certificate issued in terms of the Act. The act further states that any clearance certificate issued before the commencement of the act (6 February 2012) remains in force for one year. If a person or an organisation intends to continue with activities covered by the act, he or she must apply for a new certificate in terms of the Environmental Management Act.

2.2 The Minerals Prospecting and Mining Act of 1992

Line Ministry: Ministry of Mines and Energy The Minerals Prospecting and Mining Act No.33 of 1992 approves and regulates mineral rights in relation to exploration, quarrying, prospecting, small scale mining, quarrying, large-scale mining and transfers of mineral licences.

2.3 Water Resources Management Act of 2004

Line Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry The act provides for the management, protection, development, usage and

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conservation of water resources; to provide for the regulation and monitoring of water resources and to provide for incidental matters.

2.4 Nature conservation ordinance, ordinance No. 4 of 1975

Line Ministry: Ministry of Environment and Tourism The Nature Ordinance 4 of 1975 covers game parks and nature reserves, the hunting and protection of wild animals (including reptiles and wild birds), problem animals, fish, and the protection of indigenous plants. It also establishes a nature conservation board. The basic set of regulations under the ordinance is contained in GN 240/1976 (OG 3556). The topics covered in the regulations include tariffs (game parks), regulations relating to game parks, swimming baths, use of boats in game parks, inland fisheries, keeping game and other wild animals in capturing. In addition, the ordinance also regulates game dealers, game skins, protected plants, birds kept in cages, trophy hunting of hunt-able game, hunting at night, export of game and game meat, sea birds, private game parks, nature reserves, regulations of wildlife associations and registers for coyote getters.

2.5 National Heritage Act, 2004 (Act No. 27 of 2004)

Line Ministry/Body: National Heritage Council

The National Heritage Act provides for the protection and conservation of places and objects of heritage significance and the registration of such places and objects; to establish a National Heritage Council; to establish a National Heritage Register; and to provide for incidental matters.

2.6 Petroleum Products and Energy Act No. 13 of 1990

Line Ministry/Body: Ministry of Mines and Energy

The act regulates the importation and usage of petroleum products. The act reads as “To provide measures for the saving of petroleum products and an economy in the cost of the distribution thereof, and for the maintenance of a price thereof; for control of the furnishing of certain information regarding petroleum products; and for the rendering of services of a particular kind, or services of a particular standard; in

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connection with motor vehicles; for the establishment of the National Energy Fund and for the utilization thereof; for the establishment of the National Energy Council and the functions thereof; for the imposition of levies on fuel; and to provide for matters incidental thereof”.

2.7 Forest Act, No. 12 of 2001

Line Ministry/Body: Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry

The act regulates the cutting down of trees and reads as follows “To provide for the establishment of a Forestry Council and the appointment of certain officials; to consolidate the laws relating to the management and use of forests and forest produce; to provide for the protection of the environment and control and management of forest trees; to repeal the preservation of Bees and Honey proclamation 1923, preservation of Trees and Forests Ordinance, 1952 and the Forest Act, 1968; and to deal with incidental matters”.

The constitution defines the function of the Ombudsman and commits the government to sustainable utilization of Namibia’s natural resources for the benefit of all Namibians and describes the duty to investigate complaints concerning the over- utilization of living natural resources for the benefit of all Namibians and describes the duties to investigate complaints concerning the over-utilization of living natural resources, the irrational exploitation of non-renewable resources, the degradation and the destruction of ecosystem and failure to protect the beauty and character of Namibia. Article 95 states that “the state shall actively promote and maintain the welfare of the people by adopting; inter-alia policies aimed at maintenance of ecosystems, essential ecological processes and biological diversity of Namibia and utilization of natural resources on a sustainable basis for the benefit of all Namibians both present and future”.

2.8 Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Ordinance (1976)

Line Ministry/Body: Ministry of Health and Social Services

This ordinance provides for the prevention of air pollution and is affected by the Health Act 21 of 1988. Under this ordinance, the entire area of Namibia, except for

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East Caprivi, is proclaimed as a controlled area for the purposes of section 4(1) (a) of the ordinance.

2.9 Hazardous Substance Ordinance, No. 14 of 1974

Line Ministry/Body: Ministry of Safety and Security

The ordinance provides for the control of toxic substances. It covers manufacture, sale, use, disposal and dumping as well as import and export. Although the environmental aspects are not explicitly stated, the ordinance provides for the importing, storage and handling.

2.10 Namibian Water Corporation (Act 12 of 1997)

Line Ministry/Body: Namibian Water Corporation

The act caters for water rehabilitation of prospecting and quarrying areas, environmental impact assessments and for minimising or preventing pollution.

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3. Description of the Proposed Tantalite Mining Project

3.1 Introduction

Tantalum is a grey, heavy and very hard metal with a melting point of over 3000 degrees Celsius. It is classified as a "refractory" metal, which means it can sustain high temperatures and resist corrosion. Tantalum comes from the processing and refining of tantalite. Tantalite is the common name for any mineral ore containing tantalum. It is a good conductor of heat and electricity, which makes it useful in various electronics. Pure tantalum can be drawn into fine wire filament, which is used to evaporate other metals (Jeangrand, 2005).

Figure 5 Image of a pegmatite on site which hosts tantalite minerals. Tantalum is found in hard rock deposits such as granites, carbonites and pegmatites (igneous rock that consists of coarse granite). It is not an abundant metal, and mining it is difficult. There are only a handful of countries that mine it. The demand for tantalum has increased over the past 20 years, especially in the in the computer and electrical sectors. Sites are being identified for future development, and existing sites are being evaluated for expansion (Jeangrand, 2005).

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Most tantalum mines are open pit; some are underground. The process of mining tantalum involves blasting, crushing and transporting the resulting ore to begin the process of freeing the tantalum. The ore is then concentrated at or near the mine site, to increase the percentage (by weight) of tantalum oxide and niobium. The material is generally concentrated through wet gravity techniques, gravity, electrostatic and electromagnetic processes (Jeangrand, 2005).

Tantalum is used to make electrolytic conductors, aircraft engines, vacuum furnace parts, nuclear reactors and missile parts. Tantalum is unaffected by body fluids, and is not irritating, which makes it useful for surgical appliances. It is common in the production of cell phones, personal computers, igniter chips in car air bags, cutting tools, drill bits, teeth for excavators, bullets and heat shields. Because the metal is an electrical conductor, it is useful in many consumer electronics, such as microprocessors for plasma televisions (Jeangrand, 2005).

3.2 Mining Method

The miner expects that both open cast and underground mining processes will take place over the lifespan of the operation. Open cast mining will however be done over the first 6 years of the project, extracting ore from the F, G, E and D pegmatites as shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6 Map indicating the localities of the 17 pegmatites (> 1m thick)

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Figure 7 3D model of the 17 pegmatites – Swanson Pegmatite Swarm. The stripping ratio during this period of mining will be 1:1.5 of ore to waste. The open cast mining depths will not exceed 15m. The ore needs to be blasted. The mining operation will be done during daytime, extracting 10 000 tons of ore per month. Following blasting, the ore will be loaded by an excavator onto dump trucks that will transport the ore to a centralised plant.

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Figure 8 An image of the proposed tantalite mining site. 3.3 Labour Requirements

The proponent intends to employ more than 96 personnel, including 58 is skilled workers for the first phase of the project.

Table 1 A table showing the number of personnel that will be employed by the mine.

Company Activity Permanent Permanent Consultancy Skilled Unskilled ORP Project Management 3 1 0 Lexrox Geology & Grade & Laboratory 3 6 2 SPH Road, Mining & Crushing 31 4 1 Coremet Plant 19 15 2 Forensic Security 1 12 0 Fellowship Accounting 1 0 1 Impala Environmental 0 0 1 Total 58 38 7

The operational structure will consist of grade control, general management, mining operations, plant management and safety and security management structures. All

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these functions will be contracted in and will operate under the umbrella of the proponent. On site managers will consist of skilled and qualified people to supervise each of these functions. The best available candidates will be sourced for this purpose, whilst general labour will be obtained locally from the Warmbad and Karasburg towns. All employees will undergo a safety induction, first aid training course and wildlife awareness program. The Labour Act of 2007 will always be adhered to.

3.4 Waste Dumps

In choosing a waste dumpsite, the following aspects will be strongly considered by the proponent:

• Topography • Land-use in the area • The presence of any hazardous geological structures • Groundwater considerations • The prevailing wind direction in the area • Visual impacts that the waste dump might have • Presence of surface water in the vicinity of the area • Presence of sensitive ecological areas

Waste will consist of mining waste at a ratio of 1.5 ton of waste for 1 ton of ore, as well as some reject material from the recovery plant (<1mm material). No slimes will be created in the process. Waste material will only be stockpiled temporarily (for the first three years) after which material will be mixed (fines, plus coarse mine waste) and returned to the mined-out areas for rehabilitation. No sulphides are associated with the deposit and no acid mine leaching will therefore be present. A detailed waste material management report is included in the appendix section of this report.

3.5 Services

3.5.1 Electricity requirements

At this stage, electricity requirements for the project are minimal. The project will not be able to link to the national power grid. The bulk of the power supply to the mining

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site will be sourced from the proponent’s own generator. The power requirements for the proposed project will be minimal as power will only be required for the following activities:

• Emergency lighting

• Powering small machinery during the mining process.

• Power supply for temporary office block or container if necessary.

• Run crushing units and the recovery equipment.

Fuel for the generators will be purchased in Karasburg and will be stored in a safe, secure and protected area on site. The proponent will however, at a future date, investigate the potential of a solar power system to supplement the generator’s power.

3.5.2 Water Supply

Water will be required for the recovery of tantalite from the milled ore, primarily for the different gravity processes that will be utilized. Extensive efforts will be made to recover as much of this processing water as possible. A thickener currently forms part of the water circuit of the plant, in addition to a waste belt filter that will substantially reduce water requirements. The predicted daily water supply requirement is 158 m3 per day.

The project is an arid region with water that can be sourced from two localities namely, a pipeline from the Orange River or otherwise extracting water from local underground aquifers. The water used will be recycled wherever possible. A detailed water investigation report is included in the appendix section of this report.

3.6 Infrastructure

3.6.1 Refuse and waste removal

The proponent will negotiate directly will all suppliers of consumables such as grease, oil etc. to remove these materials for disposal once they have been used and need to be discarded. The proponent will provide adequate temporary sanitary facilities and such facilities must be maintained in a hygienic condition. Sewerage must be disposed in a manner not polluting the environment. The proponent will

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remove all refuse pertaining to the proponent’s activities, domestic or otherwise, from the property. Domestic waste will be disposed of at a waste dump in Warmbad or Karasburg. The Miner will undertake environmental rehabilitation, both during and at the conclusion of the mining operations. Unusable oil will be collected in drums and sold to dealers for recycling.

3.6.2 IT Systems and communication

Provision will be made for two-way radios to enable the excavator operators and the on-site staff to communicate effectively.

3.6.3 Security and Fencing

No provision has been made for fencing although strict access to and from the mining site will be facilitated by personnel.

3.6.4 Buildings and Offices

As part of the land use agreement, the proponent has renovated an old farmhouse, located approximately 10 kilometres from the project area. This serves as the project’s operational office and accommodation key staff members. In addition, the necessary infrastructure was put in place for core and sample management of material recovered during the drilling program.

An on-site camp was created for the proponent’s sampling teams, drilling personnel and for general exploration items and equipment. These structures will be preserved for the mining phase of the project.

3.6.5 Roads

A good dirt access road is currently available to the operational offices. From here the road has been upgraded to the operational area. New infrastructure will have to be created to support the mining and recovery plant areas. Heavy mining equipment will be utilized on site for the movement of ore and waste. Roads will all have dirt surfaces and will be maintained by the mining company.

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3.6.6 Mobile Equipment

The proponent’s vehicle fleet will be optimised during the next project phase. Provision will be made for off-road vehicles. The mining equipment will include 2 excavators (Cat 326), 5 haul trucks (Bell B20 ADT), 2 font end loaders (Cat 938), a bulldozer, and a grader.

3.6.7 Storage of Fuel, Lubrication and consumables

Consumables and lubricants will be stored in a designated area within a container. These substances will only be used for mechanical purposes and are assumed to be non-hazardous. Most of the vehicles will be refilled in Karasburg. Diesel will be delivered to the site by road transport and offloaded into the vehicles by offloading pumps.

3.6.8 Fire Fighting Provision

Portable fire-extinguishers will be fitted, as required, in vehicles and, as well as in the mobile containers where possible. The proponent will install water tanks and fire- fighting equipment onto a truck which will be converted into a firefighting vehicle. Other fire-fighting equipment will be installed into the plant.

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4. Description of the Current Environment

4.1 Introduction

This section aims to document the present state of the environment, the likely impact of changes being planned and the regular monitoring to attempt to detect changes in the environment. The project area is positioned in a sparse schrubland vegetation area. Dwarf shrublands dominate areas in the extreme south-east. The grasslands grow in extremely arid areas. The grass cover is very sparse but nevertheless dominates the little vegetation that grows on the gravel plains and hills.

The project is in Southern Namibia within a very arid region. Limited fauna and flora are present in the area. Within the confines of the proposed mining area, previous mining has taken place with stockpiles and excavations of small-scale mining operations that took place during the 1970’s and 80’s still clearly visible. The project area is present within a deep valley and the operation will not be visible from any distance. No houses or informal settlements are present near the proposed mining area and the closest operating structure is a farmhouse located 10 kilometres away. Currently the farm on which the project is located is utilized as a recreational farm, although during the last eighteen months that the proponent has been active, no recreational visitors have ever been to the property. The owners are also not staying on the farm permanently and only visit a few times during the year. Except for the mining activities, the implementation of the project will mostly consist of upgrading the existing roads and the construction of the recovery plant. Mining will take place within clearly defined areas with waste material that will be returned to excavated areas.

4.2 Climatic Conditions

4.2.1 Temperature

In the mining area, December and January are the warmest months with an average temperature of 31-33°c at noon. July and August are the coldest months with an average temperature of 10-16°c at night. Warmbad, which is in the vicinity of the project area, has distinct temperature seasons with temperatures varying during the year. The graph below depicts the temperature variations in the area.

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Figure 9 A graph showing the temperature patterns in Warmbad, from www.worldweatheronline.com Overall, winters are mild in temperature, with the coldest month being July.

4.2.2 Precipitation

The highest rainfall, which is usually experienced in March, may reach 30 mm with average rainfall days of 5. In February months, rainfall may reach 20 mm. The graph below shows the rainfall patterns in the area.

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Figure 10 A graph showing rainfall patterns in Warmbad, from www.worldweatheronline.com

4.2.3 Wind

The Warmbad area is subject to erratic winds and considerable discrepancies in spite of short distances, due to the rocky terrain. The graph below depicts the wind patterns in the area. The highest wind speeds are attained in December which may reach 30 km/h as shown by the graph below. The lowest wind speeds are prevalent in May with average wind speeds of 10-15 km/h.

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Figure 11 A graph showing windspeed patterns in Warmbad, from www.worldweatheronline.com

4.2.4 Humidity

The relative humidity during the least humid months of the year, i.e. October and November, is around 25-29 % and the most humid month is July with 40% humidity. Namibia has a low humidity in general, and the lack of moisture in the air has a major impact on its climate. This reduces cloud cover and rain, whereas the rate of evaporation increases.

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Figure 12 A graph showing the humidity patterns in Warmbad, from www.worldweatheronline.com

4.3 Geology

4.3.1 Regional Geology

The area is underlain by rocks of the Namaqua Metamorphic Complex also referred to as the Namaqua Belt or the Namaqua – Natal Belt or the Namaqua Mobile Belt. The Namaqua Metamorphic Complex (NMC) forms a belt of high-grade Mesoproterozoic gneisses that are 100 to 400km wide and extend across the width of southern Africa. The north-western end of the belt underlies most parts of southern Namibia including the project area. The complex consists of various pre- tectonic rocks as old as 2000 Ma and abundant syn-tectonic plutonic rocks, which were emplaced and deformed during the Namaqua high-grade tectono-thermal event at approximately 1200 Ma.

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The Namaqua Belt is one of a series of orogenic belts that formed during the Kibaran Orogeny in Central and Southern Africa (Mіller, 2008). The Namaqua Metamorphic Complex is made up of deeply eroded, high-grade metamorphic rocks, mainly various granitic gneisses. In Namibia the Namaqua Province is subdivided into sub- provinces (with specific lithological characteristics namely the Konkiep, Gordonia and Richtersveld sub-provinces). The sub-provinces can be further subdivided into terranes. Where exposed, the boundaries of the sub-provinces are either major shear zones or linear zones, and are generally marked aeromagnetic lineaments, although they are referred to in terms of both shear zones and lineaments. The Namaqua Front represents a spectacular linear magnetic terrane boundary in Namibia and separates the Konkiep Terrane from the magnetically deep and “quiet” Kalahari Craton to the north. The Tantalite Valley Line is a line of early syn-tectonic, mafic and ultramafic, orthopyroxene-bearing intrusions that were emplaced along or close to the boundary between the Gordonia and Richtersveld Sub-provinces (Mіller, 2008).

4.3.1 Local Geology

The project area is covered by rocks of the NMC with the geology comprising of units from the Gordonia sub-province, which is separated from the Richterveld sub- province by the Tantalite Valley Shear (TVS). The structural evolution of the Gordonia sub-province took place in three main phases. The early phase produced a regional foliation that strike E-W to NE-SW. This phase deformed the margins of the Richtersveld sub-province and culminated in the trusting of the Gordonia sub- province onto the Richtersveld sub-province. The second phase produced open, upright folds under retrograde metomorphic conditions, and the final phase produced large, regional, northwest trending shear zones. The most prominent feature on EPL5047 is the NW trending Tantalite Valley Shear Zone (TVS). Numerous other structural zones can be noted, also with a predominantly NE and EW trend. The metamorphic grades of the two sub-provinces stand in marked contrast to each other. Whilst upper Amphibolite and Granulite facies assemblages characterize the Gordonia subprovince, the Richtersveld sub-province only reach upper Greenschist conditions.

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Figure 13 A geological map of the area

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The TVS also include early syntectonic mafic and ultramafic, orthopyroxene-bearing intrusions which is represented by the Tantalite Valley Complex. These were emplaced along the boundary between the abovementioned sub-provinces. In the region of the area on interest, numerous concordant (younger) and discordant pegmatites were intruded into the above lithologies. The mineralization normally is associated within the pegmatites that are aligned with the Pofadder Shear Zone. These pegmatites are invariable discordant with the regional schistosity of the country rock within which they are emplaced. Pinch and swells structures are commonly associated with the pegmatites.

4.4 Hydrogeology and Water Resources

The licence is located 8 km away from the Orange River. There are no significant rivers which run through the licence area.

Figure 14 A map showing the flow of rivers in the vicinity of the project area.

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The hormrivier river flows towards the north of the project area (Figure 14). The project is situated in an area with minimal groundwater (.

Figure 15 A map showing the grounwater flow in the area and the locality of known aquifers in the area.

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4.5 Flora

The information is based on a detailed literature review and a site visit. In form, vegetation is generally sparse, with schrubs and a thin variety of grass. The study area is characterised by low-medium botanical diversity. Based on a site visit and the literature review, all the vegetation that are found within the vicinity of the area are of “medium” to “high” sensitivity against external conditions.

There are several tree species that occur in the area. These species include Camel Thorn, Shepard’s Tree, Grey Camel Thorn, and the Ebony Tree. Camel Thorn occurs in dry woodland along watercourses in arid areas where underground water is present as well as on deep Kalahari sands and is therefore relatively common in the study area. Grey Camel Thorn occurs on deep Kalahari sand between dunes or along dry watercourses and occurs sparsely within the study area. Shepard’s Tree occurs in semi-desert areas and bushveld but is common on sandy to loamy soils and calcrete soils and is relatively common within the study area, primarily along secondary watercourses and areas adjacent to the primary watercourses. Ebony Tree occurs in semi-desert and desert areas, usually along watercourses and in depressions and could occur in the hills or on the flats within the study area.

The most important plant species found in the study area are the quiver trees (Aloe dichotoma). As succulents, they can store water quickly in their leaves and trunks, and thus often grow in arid areas where few other trees survive.

Grass is dependable on rainfall, which in-turn causes livestock and other animals to suffer during periods of minimal rainfall (Burke, 2003). The project area, which is semi-arid, contains a few vegetation species which include a number of species endemic to Namibia. Error! Reference source not found. below lists the different p lant species which are most likely to occur within the project area.

Table 2 A table showing plant species which are likely to occur in the area

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS IN NAMIBIA Acacia erioloba Camel thorn Protected Acacia mellifera Black thorn Secure Acacia reficiens False umbrella thorn Secure Acacia haematoxylon Grey camel thorn Protected Acacia erubescens Blue thorn Secure Acacia karroo Sweet thorn Secure

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Acacia tortolis Umbrella thorn Secure Acacia hereroensis False hook-thorn Secure Boscia albitrunca Shepherd’s tree Protected Albizia anthelmintica Worm-bark false-thorn Protected Ziziphus mucronata Buffalo-thorn Protected Catophractes alexandri Trumpet thorn Secure Euclea pseudebenus Ebony tree Protected Ficus cordata Namaqua fig Protected

The density of vegetation in the vicinity of the mineral exploration site is sparse. Every effort will be made to protect the existing trees and shrubs, as these are very important to the ambience and visual appeal of the mineral exploration site. A vegetation expert will be consulted throughout the lifecycle of the mining project. The protected plant species in the project area are shown in the table below.

Table 3 Table of plant species which are protected under the Forestry Act and likely to occur in the area.

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME Acacia erioloba Camel thorn Acacia haematoxylon Grey camel thorn Albizia anthelmintica Worm-bark false-thorn Boscia albitrunca Shepherd’s tree Euclea pseudebenus Ebony tree Ficus cordata Namaqua fig Ozoroa crassinervia Namibian resin tree Sterculia Africana African star-chestnut

4.6 Fauna

4.6.1 Introduction

The information is based on a detailed literature review and a site visit which was carried out. The purpose of the Fauna literature review is to identify all potential amphibians, reptiles, and mammals expected on the project area and the surrounding farms in the vicinity of the mineral exploration sites. The mineral exploration area supports numerous faunal species but there are no species that are exclusive to the study area.

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Larger types of animals such as zebras, giraffes, lions and elephants are not found within the project area. There are no species which are exclusively endemic to the exploration area.

4.6.2 Amphibians

Based on the literature review, there are at least 12 types of amphibian species that occur in project area. Five of these amphibian species occur abundantly, two occur rarely and three of them occur uncommonly. The table below shows the different amphibian species that are likely to occur within the study area. The table below shows the different amphibian species that are likely to occur within the study area.

Table 4 A list of amphibian species which may occur in the project area

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS OCCURRENCE REFERENCE

PLATANNAS

COMMON Xenopus laevis SECURE PLATANNA ABUNDANTLY (Daudin, 1802)

TOADS ENDEMIC & Bufo gariepensis KAROO TOAD INADEQUETLY KNOWN ABUNDANTLY Bocage, 1895 Bufo rangeri RAUCOUS TOAD SECURE ABUNDANTLY Hewitt, 1935

FOSSORIAL FROGS

Phrynomantis SPOTTED AMBIGUOUS affinis RUBBER FROG (RARE?) RARELY (Boulenger, 1901) Phrynomantis BANDED RUBBER SECURE bifasciatus FROG ABUNDANTLY (Smith, 1848)

SAND FROGS, BULLFROGS, RIDGED FROGS, CACOS, PUDDLE FROGS etc. Cacosternum NAMAQUA CACO SECURE namaquense ABUNDANTLY (Boulenger, 1882) Hildebrandtia ORNATE FROG SECURE ornata UNCOMMONLY (Peters, 1878) Phrynobatrachus MABABE PUDDLE SECURE mababiensis FROG UNCOMMONLY FitzSimons, 1932 Phrynobatrachus SNORING SECURE natalensis PUDDLE FROG UNCOMMONLY (A. Smith, 1849)

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Tomopterna KNOCKING SAND Passmore et al, SECURE krugerensis FROG RARELY 1975 TANDY’S SAND Channing et al, Tomopterna tandyi SECURE FROG- ABUNDANTLY 1996

4.6.3 Mammals

Due to the mountainous terrain, the project area is believed to host a rich fauna, although the total diversity of the fauna is not known. There is a herd of , with and , and found evidence of baboons and porcupines.

Of 35 mammal species recorded in the licence area, none are restricted to this area. Six of the carnivores are Red Data species catalogued as vulnerable in the country. These are aardwolf, brown hyena, Cape and bat-eared fox, wildcat and Cape clawless otter. The antelopes include common duiker, , grey rhebok, , and .

Table 5 Mammal species which are likely to occur within the project area.

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME Antidorcas marsupialis Springbok Atelerix frontalis angolae Southern African Hedgehog Canis mesomelas Black-backed Jackal Caracal caracal Caracal Crocuta crocuta Spotted Hyena Cynictis penicillata Yellow Mongoose Equus zebra hartmannae Hartmann’s Mountain Zebra Felis nigripes Black-footed Cat Felis silvestris/lybica African Wild Cat Galerella sanguinea Slender Mongoose Genetta genetta Small Spotted Genet Ictonyx striatus Striped Polecat Lepus capensis Cape Hare Secure Lepus saxatilis Scrub Hare Manis temminckii Ground Pangolin Mellivora capensis Honey Badger/Ratel Oreotragus oreotragus Klipspringer Oryx gazella Gemsbok Otocyon megalotis Bat-eared Fox Panthera pardus Leopard

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Parahyaena (Hyaena) brunnea Brown Hyena Proteles cristatus Aardwolf Raphicerus campestris Steenbok Suricata suricatta marjoriae Suricate Sylvicapra grimmia Common Duiker Tragelaphus strepsiceros Greater Kudu Vulpes chama Cape Fox

4.6.4 Reptiles

The study area hosts numerous snakes, such as puff adders, cobras, dwarf adder and whip snakes and a variety of lizards and geckoes. According to the Namibia Conservation Ordinance of 1975, there are three reptile species protected and occur in the project area, namely:

Table 6 Protected reptile species in the project area

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS

Psammobates Oculiferus Kalahari Tent Tortoise Protected

Geochelone Pardalis Leopard Tortoise Protected

Varanus Albigularis Veld Leguaan Protected

Although mining activities do affect reptile habitat, the project will have minimal impact on the reptile species within the mineral exploration area. The table in the appendix shows the reptile species which are likely to occur within the vicinity of the mineral exploration area.

4.7 Avifauna (Birds)

The most common bird species on-site are Sociable Weavers with several nest sites located in the dry riverbeds across the site. These riverbeds appear to be higher in species density, abundance, and diversity than the adjacent plains which are relatively unproductive in terms of bird density and diversity. This habitat type is dominated by Spikeheeld Lark, Fawncoloured Lark, and Anteating Chats. The six globally threatened bird species, which have a distribution range which overlaps with the study area, may not always be observed on site. It is possible for them to occur

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within the study area at some stage. These include the Secretarybird, Kori Bustard, Ludwig’s Bustard, Lanner Falcon, Martial Eagle, and Sclater’s Lark. Larger bodied species, such as the Martial Eagle, have extremely large home ranges and could very well be found on occasion within the study area.

4.8 Archaeology

No rock art sites appear to be in the area reserved exclusively for mining at this stage of the project. Should the proponent find any archaeological/rock art sites during the next project phase, these will be acknowledged, and proper guidelines will be followed to have them protected.

4.9 Socio-Economic Environment

4.9.1 Overview of the surrounding settlements

The closest settlements to the area are Warmbad and Karasburg. Warmbad ( and German for Warm Bath, Nama: Aixa-aibes) is a settlement located in the Karas Region of southern Namibia. It is situated south of Karasburg at the Homs River, close to the border with , and belongs to the Karasburg electoral constituency.

First occupied by traders, hunters, and missionaries of different congregations, the hot springs from which the settlement's name is derived were first exploited at the beginning of the 20th century and are now been developed into a tourist attraction.

Climatically, Warmbad lies between the coastal desert and the Karoo. There is winter frost and very little rainfall. The majority of Warmbad's approximately 1,200 inhabitants live in abject poverty and 90% are unemployed. Besides tourism, there is no industry in the area. Residents survive from old-age pensions and subsistence goat farming. The settlement features a school for 160 learners, a museum, situated in the former police station, and a church.

4.9.2 Social Economic Impact

Although a few people and animals might be negatively affected by dust and noise, the explorer will ensure that these aspects are properly mitigated. With the potential employment of 96 people, this means that 96 families will benefit from the project during mining. The project has great potential to improve livelihoods and contribute

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to sustainable development within the surrounding community. Community meetings will be held from time to time by the proponent wherever possible, with the purpose of effectively communicating with the local community and to avoid any unexpected social impacts. The company would also provide a fund, that would be 1% of after tax profit for local community projects.

Tantalum is a strategic metal and has a high demand when produced outside conflict areas. Applications of the metal are mostly in new technologies and a growing demand is expected for the future. The project represents an exceptional, high grade deposit with the potential to earn substantial foreign exchange for Namibia over an extended period. It will also provide economic stimulus in a region that is in desperate need for new investments.

The purchasing of consumables, spares and equipment will also stimulate the local economy. It is also the intention of the proponent that all the contracted companies responsible for the different managerial functions of the mine will be based in Namibia.

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5. Assessment of Impacts

The purpose of this assessments of impacts section is to identify and consider the most pertinent environmental impacts and to provide possible mitigation measures that are expected from the tantalite mining activities. Two different phases are associated with the proposed development. Two different phases are associated with the proposed development. Firstly, the commencement phase, and secondly the operational phases are being covered by this assessment. Should the mining activities cease in the future, an EIA will need to be conducted to deal with the associated changes to the environment. Mitigation measures for the identified impacts are also provided in this Section.

The following assessment methodology was used to examine each impact identified:

Table 7 Assessment methodology used to examine the impacts identified

Evaluation Criteria Symbol Significance of Rating Nature of impact: P or N Effect the proposed activity would have on the affected environment which is positive (P) or negative (N)

Extent of impact: O On-Site (the site and it’s immediate surrounds) L Local (Mining Area) R Regional (Karas Region) N National (Namibia) I International Duration of impact: SD Short Duration (0 to 5 years) MD Medium Duration (5 to 15 years) LD Long Duration (lifetime of the development) Intensity of impact: L Low intensity where the natural, cultural and social functions and processes are not affected.

M Medium intensity where the affected environment is altered but natural, cultural and social functions and processes can continue. H High intensity where the affected environment is altered to the extent that natural, cultural and social functions and processes will temporarily or permanently cease. Probability of impact: LP Low probability is when the possibility of the impact occurring is low. P Probable is when there is a distinct possibility that it will occur. HP Highly probable is when the impact is most likely to occur. D Definite where the impact will occur.

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Significance of Impact: L Low Significance is when natural, cultural, social and Further subdivided into impacts economic functions and processes are not affected. If with mitigation (MM) measures and the impacts are adverse, mitigation is either easily impacts with no mitigation achieved or little will be required, or both. If impacts are measures (NMM). beneficial, alternative means of achieving this benefit are likely to be easier, cheaper, more effective and less time=consuming M Medium Significance is when the affected environment is altered but natural, cultural, social and economic functions and processes can continue. An impact exists but is not substantial in relation to other impacts that might take effect within the bounds of those that could occur. In the case of beneficial impacts, other means of achieving this benefit are about equal in time, cost and effort. H High Significance is when the affected environment is altered to the extent that natural, cultural, social and economic functions and processes will temporarily or permanently cease. If impacts are adverse, there is no possible mitigation that could offset the impact, or mitigation is difficult, expensive, time consuming or a combination of these. In the case of beneficial impacts, the impact is of a Substantial order within the bounds of impacts that could occur.

5.1. Overall socio-economic benefits and issues

5.1.1. Socio-economic benefits

With the potential employment of 96 people, this means that 96 families will benefit from the project. The project has great potential to improve livelihoods and contribute to sustainable development within the surrounding community. Community meetings will be held from time to time by the proponent wherever possible, with the purpose of effectively communicating with the local community and to avoid any unexpected social impacts.

5.1.1.1. Potential Direct Benefits

Direct capital investment: To date, the proponent has already spent N$ 7.5 million in exploration and development expenditure. The mining project will require a significant capital investment of at least N$ 100 million. This will be used for purchasing plant and machinery required for the project.

Stimulation of skills transfer: Due to the nature of mining operations, the proponent will implement ad-hoc training programmes for some of its staff members. Training programmes will be well structured and staff members will permanently benefit from these training programmes.

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Job creation: With the potential employment of 96 people, this means that 96 families will benefit from the project during the on-going phase. The project has a great potential to improve livelihoods and contribute to sustainable development within the surrounding community.

5.1.1.2. Potential Indirect Benefits

• The data generated from the mining activities will be made available to the Ministry of Mines and Energy for future research purposes. • General enhancement of the health conditions and quality of life for a few people in the surrounding settlements. • Of significance is the prospect of diversification of the surrounding economy, which is presently mainly focussed on farming, tourism and small-scale mining of semi-precious stones.

5.1.1.3. General socio-economic concerns

Notwithstanding the above benefits there are a few concerns that could reduce or counteract the above benefits related to the project, as follows:

• As the movement of staff and contractors to and from the area increases, the risk of spread of HIV/AIDS increases. • Increased influx of people to the area as people come in search of job opportunities during the commencement and operational phase of the mining project; and • Increased informal settlement and associated problems.

Table 8 Impact evaluation for socio-economy

Identified Significance Duration Extent Intensity Probability Impact NMM MM Increased spread of M L LD N M LP HIV/AIDS Increased influx of L L SD L L P people to the area Increased informal M L MD L L LP settlement in the area

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5.2. Mining phases and associated issues

5.2.1. Commencement Phase of the Project

The following potential effects on the environment during the commencement phase of the mining project have been identified:

5.2.1.1. Dust

Dust may be generated during this phase and might be aggravated during the winter months when strong winds occur. Dust will be generated by the vehicles moving in the area. Fall out dust settling on vegetation is likely to cause local disruptions in herbivorous and predatory complexes and should be minimised as far as possible.

5.2.1.2. Noise

Noise will most likely be generated by vehicles during the commencement phase. It is recommended that vehicle movement be limited to normal daytime hours to allow nocturnal animals to roam freely at night.

5.2.1.3. Safety and Security

During commencement, tools and equipment will be used on site. This increases the possibility of injuries and the responsible manager must ensure that all staff members are briefed about the potential risks of injuries on site. The manager is further advised to ensure that adequate emergency facilities, including first aid kits, are available on site. All Health and Safety standards specified in the Labour Act should be complied with.

Should additional structures be necessary at a later stage, they should be located in such a way that they do not pose a risk to the community members and wildlife that roam the area.

5.2.1.4. Visual

The proposed mining area is situated in a valley and more than 1 km from any main road. As such, any visual impact that might be caused by the team are minimal. In some parts of the area, the topography of the mining site is slightly elevated.

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Table 9 Impact evaluation for the commencement phase of the project

Identified Significance Duration Extent Intensity Probability

Impact NMM MM Dust L L SD L L P Noise M L SD L M D Safety & Security L L SD O L P Visual L L MD O L LP

5.2.2. Operational phase of the Project

During the operation phase of the project, rock units will be drilled, blasted, loaded and hauled to the plant.

5.2.2.1. Air Quality

In terms of air quality, emissions will be given off by 4x4 vehicles, excavators, front end loaders, bull dozers and haul trucks but not to an extent that warrants concern. Dust will also be produced by the drill rig and the movement of vehicles in the area.

5.2.2.2. Fire and Explosion Hazard

Hydrocarbons are volatile under certain conditions and their vapours in specific concentrations are flammable. If precautions are not taken to prevent their ignition, fire and subsequent safety risks may arise.

It must further be assured that enough water is available for firefighting purposes. In addition to this, all personnel will be sensitised about responsible fire protection measures and good housekeeping such as the removal of flammable materials including rubbish, dry vegetation, and hydrocarbon-soaked soil from the vicinity of the mining area. Regular inspections will be carried out to inspect and test firefighting equipment and pollution control materials at the drilling site.

All fire precautions and fire control at the site must be in accordance with SANS 10089-1:1999, or better. A holistic fire protection and prevention plan will be made available by the proponent at a later stage.

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Experience has shown that the best chance to rapidly put out a major fire, is in the first 5 minutes. It is important to recognise that a responsive fire prevention plan does not solely include the availability of firefighting equipment, but more importantly, it involves premeditated measures and activities to timeously prevent, curb and avoid conditions that may result in fires. An integrated fire prevention plan will be drafted before mining.

5.2.2.3. Generation of Waste

Waste in the form of contaminated soil due to spillage might occur but should be prevented using containment areas as provided. Solid waste will also be generated from contractors, staff members and other visitors to the area. Care should be taken when handling waste material.

5.2.2.4. Health and Safety

The mining operations can cause serious health and safety risks to workers on site. For this reason, adequate measures will be introduced to ensure safety of staff on site, and includes:

• Proper training of operators; • First aid treatment; • Medical assistance; • Emergency treatment; • Prevention of inhalation of fumes; • Protective clothing, footwear, gloves and belts; safety goggles and shields; • Manuals and training regarding the correct handling of materials and packages should be in place and updated as new or updated material safety data sheets becomes available; • And Monitoring should be carried out on a regular basis, including accident reports.

5.2.2.5. Fauna

Mining activities may cause minor disturbances on the habitat of a few species but no significant impacts on the animals are anticipated. The proponent shall ensure

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that no animal shall be captured, killed or harmed by any of the employees in any way. Wildlife poaching will strongly be avoided as this is an offence and anyone caught infringing in this regard will face suspension from the project and will be liable for prosecution.

5.2.2.6. Vegetation

The natural vegetation is seemingly undisturbed in the project area except for grasses, which have been grazed by livestock and wild animals. Some vegetation species in the area may be adversely impacted by the project. The type of vegetation that might be affected by the project are:

• Bushes • Ephemeral grasses • Small trees

Some of the sensitive vegetation types in the area include:

• Shallow drainage line vegetation • Scrublands surrounding the mining area

Certain species regarded as particularly important for conservation are yet to be identified and will be made known via an Addendum to this report. If particularly important species are found, they will be located by GPS and their locations communicated to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Such locations will then be demarcated and completely avoided.

5.2.2.7. Avifauna

Birds or Nest sites will not be disturbed by any employee, tourist or contractor. Should the employees observe any bird nesting sites for vultures, they will be reported to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism and the site will be avoided.

5.2.2.8. Alien Invasive Plants

Disturbance to the natural environment often encourages the establishment of alien invasive weed species. Some of the plant species that could become invasive in the area are listed below:

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• Prosopis glandulosa • Lantana camara • Cyperus esculentus • Opuntia imbricate • Cereus jamacara • Melia azedarach • Harissia martini

There are numerous ways in which invasive species can be introduced deliberately or unintentionally.

5.2.2.9 Heritage Impacts

Although no archaeological sites have been identified yet, appropriate measures will be undertaken upon discovering any new archaeological sites. All archaeological remains are protected under the National Heritage Act of 2004 and will not be destroyed, disturbed or removed. The Act also requires that any archaeological findings should be reported to the Heritage Council in Windhoek.

Table 10 Impact evaluation for the operational phase of the project

Identified Significance Duration Extent Intensity Probability Impact NMM MM Air Quality M L LD L M HP Fire & Explosion Hazard H M SD O M LP Generation of waste M L LD O L D Health and Safety H M MD N L P Fauna M L MD L M D Vegetation M L MD L M D Avifauna M L MD L M LP Alien Invasive Plants M L MD L M P Heritage M L LD O H LP