Replacing Ogongo-Oshakati water pipeline to cost N$236m

The Namibia Water Corporation (NamWater) will soon replace the pipeline supplying the north with water.

NamWater has signed contracts for the replacement of the Ogongo-Oshakati pipeline to secure reliable water supply to northern Namibia.

This was announced by NamWater spokesperson Lot Ndamanomhata yesterday.

Ndamanomhata said the total project cost is N$236.8 million, including VAT, and involves constructing a new 53km pipeline to replace the ageing asbestos-cement pipeline.

“The contract signing signifies NamWater’s commitment to enhancing water infrastructure to meet the region’s growing demand and support economic development,” he said.

Ndamanomhata said the project is part of the Namibia Water Sector Support Programme 1, which is backed by the government.

He said the frequent breaks along a critical 15km stretch from the Onambira offtake to Oshakati have forced NamWater to limit pipeline pressure, reducing supply capacity.

Ndamanomhata said the bidding process for the project began on 15 January and concluded on 22 March.

He said the contracts for each pipeline segment have been awarded to three contractors.

“The reduced pressure has prevented the pipeline from meeting projected demand for the financial year 2030/31,” Ndamanomhata said.

NamWater chief executive Abraham Nehemia said replacing the existing pipeline is urgent, since it has been in use since 1978.

“This pipeline replacement is a strategic investment in water security for the region. The current infrastructure, due to its deteriorated state, has caused frequent disruptions in water supply,” he said.

Covering the Ogongo pump station to the Oshikuku transition point (19.7km), has been awarded to China Gezhouba Group Company Ltd at a value of N$88 million.

Part B, from Oshikuku to Onangombe (14km), has been awarded to China Jiangxi Economic and Technical International Corporation Ltd for N$69.6 million.

Part C, which covers the Onangombe-to-Oshakati connection (17.9km), was awarded to New Era Investment Pty Ltd JV CCCC Origin Water Construction Group Co Ltd for N$79.6 million, he said.

He said the new pipeline would allow for higher pressures to meet the region’s future water demands.

“The contractors have committed to delivering the work within 12 months, ensuring high-quality standards throughout the construction process,” he said.