The Namibia Water Corporation (NamWater) has begun the replacement of the Ogongo-Oshakati pipeline, which was originally constructed in the 1970s.
During the groundbreaking ceremony last week, NamWater chief executive Abraham Nehemia said the project is being funded through a N$236.7 million loan agreement with the KfW Development Bank, through the Namibia Water Sector Support Program 1.
“The pipeline’s replacement has become imperative due to rapid urbanisation and population growth at Oshakati and neighbouring areas.”
He said this has caused increased pressure on ageing infrastructure that is no longer adequate to meet demand.
The new pipeline will ensure that people of the Oshana and Omusati regions have access to reliable water services.
“The project is expected to increase capacity and reliability, while significantly reducing water losses caused by aged infrastructure,” said Nehemia.
The project will see an overhaul of the existing infrastructure and the installation of cutting-edge technology.
According to Nehemia, this will enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.
He said the project has considered environmental sustainability commitments by minimising ecological impacts.
“This upgrade will increase the volume of water transported to meet current and projected demand up to 2040,” said Nehemia.
Oshana governor Elia Irimari said there have been a lot of complaints from communities about recurring pipe breaks and reduced water pressure.
“This has hindered supply to areas such as Oshikuku, Uukwangula and Elim South,” he said.
The project will replace over 52 kilometres of pipeline and upgrade key components to guarantee a more robust and efficient water supply system, said Irimari.
He further said the region will support the initiative and the implementation team.
Agriculture, water and land reform minister Calle Schlettwein said the project is part of Namibia’s Vision 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals and Africa Agenda 2063.
“Water is not just a basic human right; it is the backbone of our agriculture, industry, public health and national development. This project is a strategic enabler of that vision,” said Schlettwein.
According to Schlettwein, the new material will replace asbestos-cement with safer alternatives.
“By eliminating outdated materials such as asbestos-cement and replacing them with safer alternatives, we are investing in the long-term health and well-being of our citizens,” he added.
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