Oranjemund and Its Future
Oranjemund was founded on the back of diamond mining as an accessory to the mine. It has a history that is unlike any other town or city in Namibia and indeed the world.
Oranjemund is heavily dependent on mining, however, it is the nature of all mines to have a limited life span. Understanding this threat, Namdeb, the Oranjemund Town Council and the residents of Oranjemund have actively engaged in efforts to imagine and create an Oranjemund that can be sustainable for its residents beyond its link to diamond mining.
The original lifespan of mining in this area has been extended several times due to successes in new prospecting on- and off-shore. Despite this, Oranjemund is still preparing itself for a time when mining operations slow and then eventually halt. Privately owned businesses and community projects have been encouraged to develop in the town since the early 90s. In 2014, Namdeb officially launched the Town Transformation programme, which saw the co-creation of a vision of a sustainable town by 2030.
More recently and as a result of the Town Transformation programme, organisations like OMD2030 and OMDis were founded and have made it their mission to place the Oranjemund community and it’s future at the centre of their work. These organisations will do so by transitioning from a mining-based community to a more normalised town, and by diversifying the local economy away from mining.
Take A Tour
The Jasper House Museum highlightS 6 rooms with a description about them, and any interesting artifacts that are special or stand out.