Engineering in Namibia: Leading the Challenge
Namibia is known for its expansive, dry landscapes and low population density. The terrain presents distinct challenges and opportunities for the engineering sector — from the Namib Desert along the Atlantic coast, the central plateau, and the Kalahari Desert to the east.
Namibia has a predominantly arid climate, characterised by minimal and unpredictable precipitation. The arid climate has a significant impact on water management practices and the design of infrastructure, which is crucial for ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience. The country experiences extreme temperatures, which can affect construction materials and methods.
Amidst these challenges though, Namibia boasts a wealth of natural resources that encompasses a diverse range of minerals, including diamonds, uranium, gold, and copper. The mining industry plays an integral part in driving the economy, relying heavily on the expertise of engineers for tasks such as extraction, processing, and transportation. Namibia also has a significant amount of solar and wind energy potential, which presents promising prospects for the establishment of renewable energy infrastructure.
Lithon has made a significant impact in Namibia's agricultural, water, and energy sectors, with a strong focus on sustainability and efficiency. Our comprehensive range of services includes:
- Consultation and conceptualisation
- Research and development
- Efficiently managing and executing projects
- Expertise in multiple engineering disciplines
Our team of experts has a proven track record of delivering successful projects, demonstrating our dedication to sustainable development and cutting-edge solutions.
We specialise in development and Consulting Engineering. Our wide range of engineering services includes agricultural, civil, electrical, mechanical, and mining. We also offer project management, structural engineering, studies, transportation, and airport engineering.
Agricultural Engineering Services
Lithon's agricultural engineering services strive to optimise crop yields, minimise waste, and preserve precious natural resources.
- Lithon completed the Mashare Irrigation Scheme, a complex project that required expertise in various fields such as design, procurement, construction supervision, and project management. The project involved developing a 372-hectare irrigation scheme in northern Namibia. (Lithon, 2020).
Transport Engineering Services
Lithon's transport engineering services are centred around providing access to much-needed amenities, by upgrading existing transport infrastructure or construction of new infrastructure.
- Lithon successfully implemented various urban and rural road infrastructure projects. A notable rural roads project is the construction of the Husab access road, a 22km surfaced road with a 160m bridge over the Khan River, providing much-needed access to the Husab Uranium Mine.
- The upgrade of the Windhoek to Rehoboth single carriageway to dual carriageway free standards is another notable rural roads project, spanning over a distance of 90km, with multiple rive and interchange bridge structures along the route.
- Lithon also designed the rehabilitation of the Eros Airport Runways, to provide continuous access to the airport through the increased load capacity of the runway.
Energy Engineering Services
Lithon's energy engineering services are centred around providing access to basic electricity, renewable energy solutions and optimising energy efficiency.
- Lithon has implemented several rural electrical projects for the Ministry of Mines and Energy and NamPower in Namibia, bringing much-needed relief to communities that have not had access to basic electricity in the past.
- Lithon has also done several energy audits for clients to optimize their energy systems and ensure they operate cost-effectively. Notable clients include NamPort and the Bank of Namibia.
Geotechnical Engineering
Lithon’s geotechnical engineering services include soil and rock analysis, foundation design, and ground improvement techniques to ensure the stability and safety of structures.
- The Windhoek to Rehoboth freeway project had multiple bridge structures which had to be designed. Lithon has done all the geotechnical engineering inspections and recommendations for the foundation designs for all the bridges.
Mechanical Engineering
Lithon offers a comprehensive range of mechanical engineering services, encompassing the design, installation, and upkeep of various mechanical systems, including HVAC, plumbing, and machinery.
- Lithon played a crucial role in the Oshakati Open Market project by providing mechanical engineering services that included HVAC systems, sewer pumps and the installation of an elevator.
Engineering Services for Mining
Lithon provides comprehensive mining engineering services that cover multi-disciplinary engineering services for line and on-site infrastructure, and bankable feasibility studies.
- Lithon has done the bankable feasibility study for the provision of rail and road infrastructure to the Husab mine before the detailed design and implementation of the road leading to the mine.
- Lithon has also done the Bankable feasibility study for Lodestone Namibia by providing engineering services for the provision of water, upgrade of the main rural road leading to the mine, and all on-site infrastructure on the mine.
The Lithon Way for a Better Namibia
At Lithon, our commitment to giving back is demonstrated through thoughtful investments in various projects and communities. We prioritise the allocation of resources to initiatives that promote sustainable development and improve quality of life. Our focus is on supporting local programmes and community development efforts.
Integrity is a fundamental principle at Lithon. We place a strong emphasis on honesty, reliability, and accountability in all of our interactions, working diligently to establish trust with our clients, partners, and communities.
We showcase our loyalty by displaying unwavering dedication to Lithon's mission and principles. We provide unwavering support to our team, clients, and partners, fostering collaboration and driving collective progress towards our shared goals.
Lithon's dedication to service is apparent in our sincere willingness to help. We offer efficient and dependable solutions, catering to the requirements of our clients and communities with a mindset focused on serving and leading.
We prioritise relationships and individual needs, creating lasting impacts centred on Namibia's well-being, with a focus on people. Ensuring outstanding outcomes and fostering a collaborative workplace is achieved by treating everyone with care and respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary sectors in Namibia?
The economy relies heavily on exports. Namibia's key industries include mining, fishing, tourism, and agriculture.
What kind of things do people in Namibia make?
The primary manufacturing activities in Namibia concentrate mainly on light industry and have a direct connection to the country's agricultural sector. These industries encompass meatpacking, fish processing, and dairy processing. Since Namibia gained independence in 1990, fisheries have grown in significance for the country's economy.
How is Namibia's economy doing in 2024?
The Namibian economy experienced a growth rate of approximately 4.2% in 2023, which was slightly lower than the 5.3% growth rate observed in 2022. This decrease can be attributed to the impact of weak global demand and a decline in the agriculture sector. In 2023, inflation in Namibia saw a slight decrease from the previous year, settling at 5.9%. This was primarily due to a slowdown in the demand for Namibian diamonds.