This mine, 55km east of Swakopmund, is the world’s largest open-cast uranium mine. Uranium was first discovered here in the 1920s by Peter Louw, though his attempts at developing the mine quickly failed. In 1965, the concession was transferred to Rio Tinto-Zinc, and comprehensive surveys determined that the formation measured 3km long and 1km wide. Ore extraction came on line in 1970, but didn’t reach capacity for another eight years.
Rössing, with 2500 employees, is currently a major player in Swakopmund’s economy. The affiliated Rössing Foundation provides an educational and training centre in Arandis, northeast of the mine, as well as medical facilities and housing for its Swakopmund-based workers. It has promised that the eventual decommissioning of the site will entail a massive clean-up, but you may want to temper your enthusiasm about its environmental commitments until something is actually forthcoming.
Three-hour mine tours leave at 10am on the first and third Friday of each month; book at least one day in advance at the Swakopmund Museum (tours depart from here). You can also arrange a visit through most tour companies.
