Meteorite law in Namibia
Meteorites are protected national heritage. They should not be removed from where they lie, and export needs official permission.
Belongs to the state
The rule: Namibia protects its meteorites as national heritage. The Hoba iron, the largest known meteorite, lies where it was found and was declared a national monument in 1955, and the display of Gibeon irons in Windhoek was proclaimed a national monument in 1950. Under heritage law, meteorites should not be removed from where they lie or taken out of the country without permission from the National Heritage Council.
Gibeon in the trade: slices and pieces of the Gibeon iron are common in shops and jewellery. Most of this material was collected long ago, before today's protection, and reputable sellers describe it as old stock. Collecting new Gibeon masses or exporting them without permission is not allowed.
This is general information to help you ask the right questions, not legal advice. Laws change and their details matter, and this summary was last reviewed in 2026. Before you search, buy, sell or export a meteorite, check the current law with the authorities of the country concerned or a qualified lawyer. See meteorite law by country.
Related pages
Glossary: Meteorite ownership, Export rules, Landowner permission, Provenance