Lylie Joel
NKURENKURU – Kavango West governor Verna Sinimbo has announced substantial infrastructure developments in the region, including the construction of 68 new classrooms in 11 schools.
She revealed these figures during her State of the Region Address at Nkurenkuru on Friday.
“Your support isn’t just building infrastructure; it’s building dreams, shaping minds, and uplifting communities,” Sinimbo said, acknowledging the crucial role of development partners in the region’s transformation.
The progress in education includes the 68 new classrooms at schools such as Karanawa Primary School, Nkurenkuru Secondary Project School and Olavi Sivhute Primary School.
Additionally, the completion of three ablution blocks and two water tank stands with tanks has significantly improved learning conditions.
Despite these advancements, the governor highlighted ongoing challenges. Currently, 29 schools in the region still operate without permanent structures, 35 lack electricity, 12 have no access to water, and 20 are in urgent need of renovation.
Sinimbo emphasised the region’s commitment to addressing these issues.
“We will continue to engage the Education Ministry for additional investments in classrooms, hostels, laboratories, and school furniture,” the governor said.
She also outlined plans for new hostels at Daniel Sitentu Mpasi Secondary and Sharukwe Schools.
The governor expressed special gratitude to development partners, particularly Namdia and the Namibia Fish Consumption Promotion Trust, for their classroom donations.
Beyond education, Kavango West is heavily investing in youth development through sports infrastructure. Phase one of the Nkurenkuru Multi-Purpose Youth Resource Centre is nearing completion and will feature changing rooms, volleyball, basketball, and netball courts.
“These facilities will create productive recreational activities for the youth; foster talent development and facilitate employment creation,” Sinimbo said.
A significant milestone is the completion of Phases 1A and 1B of the Nkurenkuru Vocational Training Centre, which is set to welcome its first students in January 2026. The governor urged the Namibia Training Authority to expedite the construction of student accommodation and introduce agriculture-related courses that cater to the region’s specific needs.
Furthermore, land has been identified for basic community sports infrastructure across all eight constituencies, with construction earmarked for two priority constituencies this year.
The State of the Region Address is an annual report delivered by regional governors. It details central government achievements and planned activities within the region for the previous and current financial years, promoting accountability and transparency.
-Nampa