NamWater’s N$1 billion projects to enhance water supply security
Bulk water supplier takes crucial steps to achieve 100% coverage
Only 87% of Namibia's population has access to potable water, leaving 13% without this essential resource.
NamWater has announced four major projects worth over N$1 billion, including a N$15 million Henties Bay reservoir pipeline upgrade, which involves replacing a critical five-kilometre water pipeline from the Omdel aquifer.Another project is the Ondangwa-Omutsegwonime bulk water supply scheme, which is undergoing an upgrade to meet increasing water demand and address frequent supply interruptions. The first phase of this project, at a cost of N$91 million and fully funded by NamWater, focuses on replacing a 17-kilometre stretch of pipeline from Ondangwa to Oshali.
In a statement issued on Monday, NamWater said the upgrade is crucial for bolstering water security in the Oshana and Oshikoto regions, supporting regional development and ensuring that growing communities receive reliable water services.
Improved water infrastructure
Another major undertaking is the Ohangwena II Wellfield Water Supply Schemes, with the support of the African Development Bank (AfDB), as part of the Namibia Water Sector Support Programme, aimed at enhancing water infrastructure for Eenhana and surrounding communities.
"This project, costing nearly N$250 million, aims to boost water supply capacity and ensure a sustainable, reliable source of clean water for the Ohangwena Region. It includes equipping boreholes, installing a reverse osmosis purification plant and constructing vital infrastructure," NamWater said.
Funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), NamWater said the project also includes brine disposal ponds, pump stations, pipelines, and reservoirs, to ensure sustainable water supply for the region.
"This initiative highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing Namibia’s water needs and supports the broader goal of improving water accessibility and quality."
Urgent needs being addressed
In the Kavango regions, the Rundu Water Treatment Plant Extension and Associated Works project, at a cost of N$665 million, aims to boost water supply capacity through a new raw water abstraction system, an advanced treatment plant, and upgrades to the existing water supply scheme.
According to NamWater, the extension is critical for addressing the urgent need for reliable water infrastructure in these rapidly growing regions.
NamWater has also committed to extending and upgrading the Outapi Water Treatment Works, with a project value of N$123.18 million, an initiative that will expand the plant’s capacity to meet the growing water demand in Outapi and surrounding areas, ensuring a consistent and reliable water supply.
"Currently, only 87% of Namibia’s population has access to potable water, leaving 13% without this essential resource. NamWater’s strategic investments in water infrastructure are crucial steps towards achieving 100% coverage, in line with its vision," NamWater emphasised. - [email protected]