Otjiwarongo launches N$92 million road reconstruction project

A reconstruction project to reconstruct a number of major roads damaged by recent heavy rains in Otjiwarongo, valued at N$92 million, officially commenced on Friday.

Otjiwarongo Municipality chief executive Mberipura Hifitikeko said at the ground-breaking ceremony that the road rehabilitation and resurfacing project is funded by the Road Fund Administration (RFA) in a three-year deal. The China International Cooperation Group has been appointed to execute the project.

“The heavy rainfall we received since January has caused significant damage to our roads and today, we are gathered here to address it,” Hifitikeko said.

The town’s mayor, Gottlieb Shivute, acknowledged that several roads require extensive repairs and structural improvements, as they have deteriorated to such an extent that it has exceeded the capacity of routine maintenance. Consequently, selected roads will undergo complete reconstruction, including strengthening their base and improving drainage systems to extend their lifespan.

“The municipality is aiming for quality roads at the end of the rehabilitation and resurfacing activities,” Shivute said.

RFA chief executive Ali Ipinge was also present, and said nine roads have been identified for the reconstruction programme.

He said the old tar on Dr Libertina Amathila Avenue and Bahnhof and Kandara Church streets will be replaced with asphalt.

Rikumbi Kandanga Road, River Street, Virmos Bar Street, Manuel Somseb Street, Simentaler Street, Wes Street, and Otjibricks Road are also listed for rehabilitation.

Ipinge urged the municipality to allocate annual funds for periodic and routine road maintenance, saying that poor road conditions negatively impact Namibia’s economic growth. He also announced the RFA’s decision to increase annual funding for urban road improvements from N$100 million to N$600 million.

“The Roads Authority will contribute to the Otjiwarongo road network project by providing technical support,” Ipinge said