Steve Minkin Water Well in Namibia

My Brother Steve passed away in an accident at home in 2004. Steve was one of those people you would never forget. He was always thinking and helping others. He loved teaching and sharing his knowledge with anyone that would listen.

Steve's Brother-in-Law, Doug is a mineral dealer and often visits South Africa and Namibia (Western South Africa) to collect rare and unusual specimens to sell. Doug has an extensive network of contacts there and often trades with local miners for their best finds. Steve went with Doug to Namibia and became friendly with a group of miners. He was so moved by them that he said "wouldn't it be nice if we could some day help these people" These miners live in a remote area of the Namib desert and do not have food, water or even wood to cook their meals.

Katherine (Kit) Minkin, Steve's Mom made his wish come true. Mom had Doug and me do the leg work of providing a water well for this mining camp. Doug contacted the Ministry of Water in Namibia and a driller somewhat near the site. We investigated drilling locals and decided on a site near the village which had an abandoned well from many years ago, The site already had a containment pond which was for the desert wildlife. The fact that the concrete pond existed meant that the water would probably be drinkable and not laden with salt.

The well was drilled, equipped with a windmill and holding take for the people. This was serendipitous because the well provides water for the people and wildlife. As a naturalist, Steve would be especially proud to help the miners live a little easier and provide for many different species of animals. Zebra, kudu, springbok and even black rhino tracks can be seen around the well.

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The Steve Minkin Water Well in the Namib Desert

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In the Shadows of Brandburg Massif, this Well Provides Water for the Local Miners and Wildlife

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Clean Unsalted Water in the Containment Pond. Notice the Razor Wire Fence which Protects the Windmill and Equipment.