News
Probono 102 – Registered? Namibia’s Voter Registration System Explained
Voting is one of the most important things a person can do to protect democracy. Elections are essential to a democratic government because they provide people the power to shape public policy and determine the course of the country.
Legal Assistance Centre Statement on Ultimate Safaris v. Goantagab Mining
Emilia Nanyeni (Legal Assistance Centre) | Prepared for Public Awareness | October 2025
Namibia’s Goantagab mining dispute is not just a squabble between a safari operator and miners; it is a litmus test for our commitment to constitutional environmental rights and community driven conservation. The proposed tin mine sits in a joint management area that shelters endangered desert adapted rhinos, yet the environmental clearance process has been marred by inadequate consultation and assessments that overlook poaching risks. If we sacrifice long term biodiversity and the livelihoods of conservancy communities for short term extractive gains, we betray Article 95(l) of our Constitution, which commands the State to maintain ecosystems for present and future generations.
This case also exposes deeper weaknesses in our extractive governance. Reports suggest mining claims have quietly transformed into large scale operations under the guise of exploration, while conflicting government signals and delayed enforcement orders hint at regulatory capture. To remain a leader in community based natural resource management, Namibia must require strategic environmental assessments that value ecosystem services, enforce true Free, Prior and Informed Consent, and empower independent monitors. Most importantly, our courts and policymakers should remember that natural resources are held in trust for all Namibians, present and future and any development that erodes that trust undermines the rule of law and the nation’s long term prosperity.
Read our full statement on the case here
Uis on the Rise: From Settlement to Town – What This Means for the Community
Chloe Brandt (Legal Assistance Centre) | Prepared for Public Awareness | June 2025
Uis is a historically significant and rapidly developing community located in the Dâures Constituency of the Erongo Region, Namibia. Known for its mining roots and proximity to the iconic Brandberg Mountain, Uis is now poised for a major administrative upgrade and transformative milestone: with its official declaration as a town in November 2025.
This shift carries both exciting opportunities and critical responsibilities.
Cronjé Inc Donating Monthly Towards Maintaining NAMLEX – the Index to Our Laws
A big thank you to Cronjé Inc for acknowledging the importance of our non-profit legal work in supporting us with N$ 10 000 per month!
“I note that I have personally benefitted significantly from the Namlex project.” Director Christiaan Cronjé stated that when he started as a young lawyer, he used Namlex to obtain a basic understanding of the law in Namibia. Through the years as they had the opportunity to expand into new areas of law, Namlex has been the first point of call to get an overview of the relevant laws and regulations in each new sector. He expressed his gratitude for the work that has been invested into Namlex as it continues to have a substantial impact.
Press: LAC Condemns the Brutal Rape and Murder of Young Girls in Namibia
29 April 2025 – The Legal Assistance Centre (LAC) vehemently condemns the recent abductions, rapes, and murders of young girls in Namibia. The recent femicides in Okahandja, including the tragic deaths of 15-year-old Beyonce !Kharuxas, six-year-old Rosalind Fabian, and five-year-old Ingrid Maasdorp represent a catastrophic failure to protect Namibia’s most vulnerable. We demand urgent, systemic action to address sexual and gender-based violence and child rights violations.
The LAC urges law enforcement to prioritize these investigations, ensuring perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The LAC advocates for their right to justice, dignity, and safety. We echo President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s call for national unity and emphasize that such crimes undermine the rule of law and Namibia’s commitment to human rights.
Ending gender-based violence requires societal transformation. The LAC calls on all Namibians to reject toxic norms, protect children, and hold authorities accountable. Let us honour these young lives by building a culture where human rights are non-negotiable.
Our hearts ache for the families and communities devastated by these losses. We extend our sincerest condolences to the loved ones of the victims and hope they will find some relief in the legal system to hold these criminals accountable.
New Project to Boost Transparency and Public Engagement in Namibia’s Green Economy
27 March 2025
The Eco Dialogue Collective, a new European Union-funded initiative, will support Namibia’s transition to a greener future by strengthening transparency and accountability in the management of natural resources such as green hydrogen, oil, and gas.
“The path to sustainable development is paved with open conversations, where diverse insights converge to create impactful solutions! In pursuit of sustainable development, every voice matters. Successful dialogues can transform disparate perspectives into a cohesive vision for our country.” – Corinna van Wyk
Full Release and more at UNDP
