The Chamber of Mines of Namibia has ushered in a new era of leadership with the appointment of Fabian Shaanika as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 May 2026. This transition marks a pivotal moment for the nation’s extractive industry, as Shaanika succeeds the venerable Veston Malango, who retires after two decades of influential service. While Malango will remain in a transitional capacity until the end of the year to facilitate a seamless handover, the appointment of Shaanika signifies a strategic move towards integrating high-level financial acumen with deep-seated technical expertise during a period of significant sector evolution.
Shaanika enters the role with a formidable pedigree that spans nearly 20 years across the entire mining value chain. A registered professional geologist, his career trajectory has seen him navigate the complexities of exploration, project development, and production, complemented by a sophisticated background in investment banking. His most recent tenure as Managing Director of Kelp Blue, where he managed the scaling of operations to full commercial production, provides him with a contemporary perspective on the operational challenges and opportunities currently facing the Namibian landscape.
The Chamber’s Executive Committee has expressed immense confidence in Shaanika’s ability to advance the competitiveness of the industry, citing his unique combination of technical and financial insights. Having held senior positions at prominent institutions such as Rand Merchant Bank Namibia and Standard Bank Namibia, as well as technical roles at Namdeb and Skorpion Zinc, Shaanika is well-positioned to bridge the gap between industrial requirements and the capital markets. His leadership is expected to bolster the Chamber’s advocacy efforts, particularly as the country navigates the complexities of renewable energy integration and petroleum sector synergies.
As the industry reflects on the legacy of Veston Malango, who is credited with transforming the Chamber into a cornerstone of public-private cooperation,the focus now turns to how Shaanika will build upon this foundation. With academic credentials from Stellenbosch, Imperial College, and London Business School, the new CEO possesses the global outlook necessary to champion Namibia as a premier mining destination. His appointment is a clear signal that the Chamber remains committed to a future defined by sustainable development, industrial stability, and robust economic advocacy.
Commenting on the transition and the strategic path forward, the Chamber’s Executive Committee noted: “Shaanika’s combination of technical expertise, financial acumen and leadership experience will strengthen the institution’s role in advancing the competitiveness and sustainable development of Namibia’s mining industry.”
