The closure of Shingunguma Primary School in the Ohangwena region due to flooding has prompted government to fast-track a N$22 million programme to install floating bridges across the Ohangwena, Kavango East and Zambezi regions.
The floating bridges will be used as safe passageways to schools and other essential service places, particularly in areas where learners are forced to cross flooded water points to access classrooms.
Shingunguma Primary School, which accommodates 376 learners, was forced to suspend classes on 19 March, after floodwaters cut off access routes, a recurring challenge in the Shingunguma area that continues to disrupt education annually.
Another school, Onanghulo Primary School, was also officially closed on Tuesday due to rising water levels, further highlighting the growing impact of flooding on education in the region.
Flooding has long affected communities in Ohangwena, as well as Kavango East and Zambezi, particularly during the rainy season when oshanas overflow and isolate villages. In previous years, several schools in these regions have remained inaccessible for extended periods, with some closures lasting up to four to six months, resulting in significant learning losses. In flood-prone communities such as Shingunguma and Onanghulo, learners often miss months of schooling, while teachers struggle to maintain continuity under difficult conditions, underscoring the urgent need for long-term solutions.
The latest closures have triggered intervention from both regional and national leadership, with authorities moving to implement measures aimed at ensuring uninterrupted access to education.
Ongenga constituency councillor Joseph Nenghwanya welcomed the swift response from government, expressing gratitude for how quickly authorities acted.
“This intervention comes as a directive from the President to ensure that schools affected by flooding are addressed and that learning is not disrupted,” he said.
Nenghwanya added that authorities have assessed the situation on the ground and are developing practical measures to ensure the safety of learners while maintaining access to education. The principal of Shingunguma Primary School, Grace Musheko, expressed disappointment over the continued disruptions. “It is disheartening to see learners being left behind due to circumstances beyond their control. These closures affect their academic performance and overall progress,” she said.
However, she said she is still grateful that the government came through for them.
At the national level, the Ministry of Works and Transport has initiated the rollout of floating bridges in flood-prone areas across the three regions.
Minister Veikko Nekundi confirmed that government has procured 28 floating bridges, each measuring approximately 200 meters, at a total cost of N$22 million from an international supplier.
In addition, anchor blocks valued at N$1,7 million have been procured locally through Wikreate Investment CC to support the installation of the bridges.
“We have already completed procurement, but experienced delays in logistics as the bridges were sourced internationally. The first batch has now arrived and is being distributed to affected regions,” Nekundi said.
He added that further consignments are expected in phases through to the end of April.
“This is a phased programme due to budget constraints, but we remain committed. These bridges will improve access to schools, clinics, and essential services,” he said.
Ohangwena remains one of the priority areas, particularly around Shingunguma, where flooding has disrupted schooling despite limited rainfall, pointing to ongoing challenges in water management systems.
In the interim, authorities are exploring temporary measures, including the use of boats and possible accommodation arrangements for learners closer to schools.
The rollout of floating bridges is expected to provide long-term relief across all three regions and ensure that learning continues uninterrupted, even during peak flooding periods.