ONGWEDIVA – The Roads Authority (RA) has given the go-ahead for the construction of the Engoyi-Omuntele road, its CEO Conrad Lutombi has confirmed. 

This follows complaints by Tonateni Shidhudhu, a concerned resident of the Omuntele village in the Oshikoto region, in a letter dated 27 July 2023.

The project had faced uncertainties due to unconfirmed reports that the RA would prioritise the gravel road construction from Omuthiya to Onanke ahead of the section between Engoyi and Omuntele. 

Shidhudhu, a journalist-turned- communications specialist, did not take the decision lightly, arguing that this approach would be unfair to the community living along the Engoyi-Omuntele road, as it is in dire need of reconstruction.

Although initially disheartened by the delayed response, he has since expressed satisfaction that the RA has taken action to address their plight. 

Lutombi recently announced that the long-awaited upgrading of the road will commence on 1 September, and the project has been awarded to the Roads Contractor Company.

With the project set to begin soon, residents eagerly anticipate improved road conditions, bringing relief to their daily commute and enhancing accessibility in the region.

Poor road infrastructure remains a major challenge in the Oshikoto region, especially in the constituencies of Engodi, Okankolo and Nehale lya Mpingana. - fhamalwa@nepc.com.na