Africa-Press – Namibia. DEPUTY prime minister and minister of industries, mines and energy Natangue Ithete says he is working non-stop to address security concerns around minerals, particularly diamonds in the sea.
“I questioned that when I was the standing committee chairperson on economics and it is known to everyone. In terms of our vessels in the sea, I have asked how much security we have. Now I’m here to make sure I implement,” he said in parliament on Wednesday.
He said due to the nature of security, he will not divulge to the public what strategies are being put in place. He, however, called on the nation to bear with him as he addresses the matter.
This comes after Popular Democratic Movement president McHenry Venaani questioned what strategies are in place to address security issues around vessels mining diamonds in the sea.
“We are hearing critical reports coming from many months now that the sea is unprotected by our security officials,” Venaani said.
He questioned Ithete on how the ministry aims to ensure that Namibia’s precious resources are protected.
Venaani added that reports of stolen diamonds have surfaced, noting that Namib Desert Diamonds is suing G4S Secure Solutions Namibia for N$314 million over an alleged role in the 18 January robbery.
He said while this is ongoing, diamonds are being mined in the sea by vessels without protection.
“What are you going to do to address this?” Venaani asked.
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