OSHIKUNDE – Works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi on Friday inaugurated the Omulondo-Oshuuli gravel road, improving access to five villages, two schools, markets and other essential services. 

Constructed at a cost of N$53 million, the project was jointly funded by the Namibian government and KfW. 

The project included 13.36 kilometres (km) of a new district road, linking Omulondo and Oshuuli, as well as an additional 9.64km of access roads to surrounding settlements, schools and social facilities. 

The road is expected to improve mobility, provide reliable access and unlock new economic opportunities. 

Implementation began on 1 July 2024. 

Despite the delays, it was completed on 11 March 2026. 

Nekundi said the project forms part of government’s commitment to improving rural accessibility, strengthening local economies and enhancing service delivery. He said the road would transform daily life for communities in the area.

The minister said improved access means consistent school attendance, more reliable delivery of textbooks and supplies, and fewer travel disruptions for teachers. 

“Over time, that consistency translates into better performance, higher completion rates and more young people qualifying for training and jobs,” he said. 

He added that the investment would also improve emergency response times for ambulances and police, enhance access to government outreach services and reduce vehicle operating costs through less wear and tear, fewer delays and more predictable travel. 

“I, therefore, call on all road users, drivers, transport operators and communities to use the road responsibly. Let us obey speed limits, respect road signs and drive with care, especially where children cross and pedestrians walk along the roadside,” he urged. 

Nekundi said rural infrastructure development requires persistence and partnership. 

“We faced challenges that required cooperation, patience and decisive action, including demining requirements on some access roads and borrow pits, rainfall disruptions and land compensation disputes where initial rates were considered too low,” he said. He added that those challenges were resolved through stakeholder engagement and revised compensation rates by the ministry. 

Meanwhile, Nekundi also officially commissioned floating bridges at Shingunguma Primary School in the Ohangwena region on Friday. 

The floating bridge will allow learners to access the school, which has been closed since March due to heavy rain. 

Ohangwena governor Kadiva Hamutumwa thanked the ministry for continuing to deliver services in the region, particularly through newly completed gravel roads. Teachers and community members also expressed appreciation for government’s continued efforts to bring services closer to the people. 

A teacher from Shuuli Combined School said poor road conditions had long posed challenges, with staff unable to use sedan vehicles. 

– fhamalwa@nepc.com.na