NamWater confirms fatal incident involving two employees

NamWater has acknowledged the death of two of its employees, who were electrocuted on duty in the Kavango West region on Thursday.

NamWater spokesperson Lot Ndamanomhata confirmed the incident in a statement on Friday.

“NamWater regrets to confirm the passing of two employees in a workplace incident on 20 February 2025 at Nankudu village, Kavango West region.

“The incident occurred during their work at the river abstraction pump at Kandjimi Murangi,” he said.

Ndamanomhata said the police are investigating the incident, and NamWater’s risk and safety officer has been deployed to assess the situation.

“Until the investigations are concluded, no further details can be provided.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and colleagues, especially those from Business Unit North East. May their souls rest in peace,” he said.

The Namibian on Friday reported that the two employees died while fixing a water pump at the Kavango River on Thursday.

The employees were identified as Matheus Shilemba and Martin Maseke.

Kavango West regional chief inspector Raimbeth Muronga said Shilemba and Maseke were electrocuted and died at the scene at Nankudu village in Tondoro.

“The deceased were allegedly trying to fix a machine that pumped water from the river to the community,” he said.

Muronga said Shilemba was a resident of Nankudu village, and Maseke of Kahenge village.

This incident follows that of a teacher from Elia Neromba Secondary School in the Kavango East region, who died after being electrocuted in the bathroom of a guest house while attending a workshop on Wednesday.

Maria Katega (40) died at Siruwo Guest House in Nkurenkuru in the Kavango West region.