OUTAPI – The minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Calle Schlettwein, said water is not just a necessity but the foundation of life and a driving force behind economic development, social stability and public health.
He made these sentiments during the two groundbreaking ceremonies of the Outapi Water Infrastructure Plant extension and the replacement of the Ogongo-Oshakati pipelines on Friday at Outapi in the Omusati region. “The Outapi Water Treatment Plant has served as a lifeline to the Omusati region for many years, supplying vital water to Outapi and surrounding areas. However, the rapid growth of these communities – underscored by a steady urbanisation rate – has placed significant pressure on the current infrastructure,” he said. He said the existing plant, commissioned in 2001, has reached its full capacity.
Schlettwein revealed that the project is valued at N$141.8 million, with a construction timeline of 16 months.
Water supply has been unable to meet the rising demand, resulting in suppressed supply, leaving many areas without sufficient water to support their needs. “This project will support the economic activities in the region by enabling agricultural productivity, supporting small and medium-scale businesses, and fostering the growth of key industries,” he said. Improved water infrastructure will enhance public health, education and overall quality of life for residents of Outapi and surrounding areas.
Omusati governor Erginus Endjala expressed concern about widespread water shortages, disruptions, low water pressure and dry taps affecting many areas in the region.
He said it has caused panic and tension among the public as drought intensifies and water provision systems are not functioning effectively.
He thanked the ministry for its proactive response in addressing the crisis by building water infrastructure aimed at normalising water supply to the public.
He highlighted the ongoing upgrade of the Outapi Purification Plant, which is expected to improve water pressure and ensure water reaches its intended destinations.
However, he has pointed out that water for animal consumption is depleting rapidly, as wells and earth dams are drying up.
Endjala pleaded for earth-moving equipment to excavate earth dams and ensure sufficient water for livestock.
Outapi mayor Selma Asino stressed that the rising water demand, driven by urban expansion and population growth, underscores the importance of the current expansion project.
“This new extension will not only increase the plant’s capacity but also ensure a continuous supply of high-quality water for all our communities,” she said.
Schlettwein said the groundbreaking ceremony for the Ogongo-Oshakati pipeline Replacement Project is valued at N$235.7 million.
He added that the groundbreaking of the Ogongo-Oshakati pipeline project marks a significant milestone in the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring access to reliable, safe and sustainable water for every citizen.
NamWater CEO Abraham Nehemia highlighted the strategic importance of the pipeline being replaced.
He said the current pipeline, originally constructed in the 70s, has served its purpose well over the decades. However, it has now surpassed its economic and operational lifespan, leading to inefficiencies in delivering safe, potable water to Oshakati and the surrounding areas.
He said the pipeline was a lifeline for Oshakati until 1994 when a new water treatment plant was constructed in Oshakati, alongside the Ogongo-Oshakati canal for raw water. “This project is not merely an act of replacement. It is a strategic intervention to address growing water demands, reducing inefficiencies and ensuring that the people of the Oshana and Omusati regions have access to reliable water services,” said Nehemia.