Police defend N$8,3m splashed onOnhuno checkpoint

The Namibian Police have defended spending N$8,3 million on the recently inaugurated Onhuno police checkpoint in Ohangwena region.

The police say the structure was constructed within two months.

National police spokesperson deputy commissioner Kauna Shikwambi says the checkpoint aims to ensure road safety.

“Take note that the provisions of the Public Procurement Act were followed. Apart from the roof structures, there were volumes of earthworks, roads, paving, electrical work, office, road markings, road signs, ablution facilities and sewerage as well as a by-pass road, which commenced today,” she says.

The checkpoint, which has attracted criticism from the public due to its high cost, was inaugurated by minister of home affairs, immigration, safety and security Albert Kawana on Friday.

It was constructed by August 26 Construction.

The police is also in the process of constructing a checkpoint at Ongwediva.

Namibians have taken to social media, demanding that the ministry and the police provide a breakdown of the expenditure involved in setting up the checkpoint.

“Bypassing roads could not be constructed at the same time, because it was the same road used while constructing the actual checkpoint,” Shikwambi says.

She says August 26 Construction was the most affordable bidder and was thus awarded the tender.

“We are grateful for the new development at Onhuno, likewise for those who continue to praise and acknowledge the ministry and government for what was achieved, thereby ensuring road safety measures, and to the officers manning the checkpoint,” she says.

During the inauguration on Friday, Kawana said the Onhuno police checkpoint is essential as it serves as a critical point for monitoring and regulating traffic flow, ensuring compliance with road safety regulations and deterring criminal activities on the road.

“Let us reflect on the significance of the checkpoint in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among our citizens. Road traffic accidents not only result in the loss of precious life, but also inflicts immense economic and social costs on our society,” the minister said.

‘NO SENSE’

Independent Patriots For Change spokesperson Immanuel Nashinge says the structure’s cost makes no sense.

“How can such a simple structure cost N$8,3 million? There is nothing extraordinary there. Even the one that is on the road to Hosea Kutako International Airport is better than that, but it did not cost such an amount.

“Are there scanners or what’s fancy there?” he asks.

Nashinge says there are not enough facilities to justify the amount spent on the checkpoint, such as offices and temporary custody facilities for those apprehended at the checkpoint.

“What does this infrastructure have that is so costly? This project is overpriced. As a taxpayer, I must see the value of my money.

“That structure cannot even be compared to some fire brigade stations at some towns that cost less for more,” he says.