The German government continues to support Namibia’s sustainable development efforts in the water sector, and recently agreed to finance the rehabilitation of Windhoek water treatment plants.

The German Development Bank KfW on Wednesday signed a N$1.26 billion agreement with the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises to finance the rehabilitation and extension of the Gammams and Otjomuise water treatment plants.

The Ministry of Finance said in a statement the project is being funded through the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development and implemented through the KfW Development Bank.

“The objective of the project is to upgrade the existing wastewater treatment capacities and improve Windhoek’s potable water supply,” the ministry said.

It noted that the financing is in line with the long-term strategies to ensure water security for Windhoek.

Once completed, the project will enhance the capacity of the Gammams and Otjomuise treatment plants, especially concerning the water quality.

“This is intended to safeguard the provision of additional feedwater for a second direct potable water reclamation plant, which will contribute to the supply security of Windhoek as well as protect water resources in the entire central area of Namibia,” the ministry said.

The concessional financing agreement was signed by Finance Minister Ipumbu Shiimi and KfW country director Beatrice Lucke and witnessed by Urban and Rural Development Minister Erastus Uutoni and NamWater chief executive officer Abraham Nehemia. - Nampa