KATIMA MULILO - The Ministry of Urban and Rural Development has allocated N$2.1 million to the Oshana Rural Development Project for the 2023/2024 financial year.

Oshana Regional Council spokesperson Elly Ashikoto told Nampa on Tuesday the primary objective of this initiative is to implement a rural sanitation programme, primarily focusing on constructing 152 rural toilets.

Out of the total number, 18 toilets will be constructed in Okatana; 22 in Okaku; 10 in Okatjali; 17 in Ondangwa rural; 10 in Ondangwa urban; 17 in Ongwediva; 10 in Ompundja; 13 in Oshakati East; 10 in Oshakati West; 15 in Uukwiyuushona; and 10 in Uuvudhiya.

Ashikoto said this will strategically address the sanitation needs of various constituencies, with allocation based on the size and needs of each community.

Each toilet, inclusive of materials and labour costs, is estimated to cost N$13 785, and the procurement method employed for this project is Execution by Public Entities.

The spokesperson said the responsibility of executing the project has been entrusted to the Ongwediva Rural Development Centre, with a committed cost of N$1 624 216. The remaining budget of N$19 583 will cover unforeseen costs and preliminary expenses, ensuring that the project progresses smoothly and efficiently.

The sanitation initiative will see approximately 116 unemployed youth from the region being employed, and the regional council is investing N$471 200 to engage these individuals in the project.

Ashikoto noted that this will ensure that the benefits of the initiative are not only confined to improved sanitation, but also extend to economic empowerment of members of the community. All employment opportunities will be strictly allocated to people from local constituencies, providing a direct avenue for community members to contribute to and benefit from the project.

The Oshana Regional Council will also acquire bricks exclusively from brick makers within each constituency.

- Nampa