SOMO and partner LaRRI are currently conducting research into the environmental, labour and human rights conditions at Namibia’s two active uranium mines: Rössing (Rio Tinto Group) and Langer Heinrich (Paladin Resources). Based on the results of that research SOMO, LaRRI and Earthlife Namibia, in collaboration with WISE and MISEREOR, will be conducting a series of workshops to raise awareness on the potential environmental and human rights impacts of uranium mines. The workshops will take place from October 27-30 in the capital Windhoek and in the mining communities of Arandis and Swakopmund.

In addition to presentations based on the results of the research in Namibia, international experts from Germany, Brazil, South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania and the Netherlands will speak with local workers and community members about radiation health and safety, labour issues, nuclear energy, and other topics related to uranium mining in Africa. The aim of the workshops is to raise awareness about the potential impacts of uranium mining in communities where new uranium mines are being explored and planned.