Reported in domestic newspaper The Namibian, Debmarine Namibia recently launched what is claimed to be the world’s largest marine diamond mining vessel, the MV Mafuta. The launch was carried out on March 8 in conjucntion with the celebration of the company’s 10th anniversary which was attended by dignitaries who included President Hifikepunye Pohamba and the Debmarine founding President Dr Sam Nujoma. The Mafuta, which means seas or oceans in the Oshiwambo language, will be an addition to the five vessel production fleet Debmarine Namibia already owns, such as the pictured Peace in Africa.

The vessel is expected to produce 350 000 ct/y or 30% of the annual production which will make her the biggest carat contributor and revenue generator for the company. The state-of -the art vessel is fitted with a crawler-mounted dredge which is designed to mine for 100 hours continuously. It is 174 m long and 24 m wide and can provide accommodation for 85 people.  The Namibian stated: “Speaking at the occasion, President Pohamba encouraged the management of the company to continue exploring further avenues to strengthen its position as the global leader in marine exploration, prospecting and mining. Pohamba said that although the negative effects of the global economic downturn continue to be felt around the world, the mining sector, particularly the diamond mining sub-sector continues to be an important pillar to the country’s economy, thus it is pleasing and encouraging to observe positive growth and development in this section.”