ONGWEDIVA – The Road Authority has injected N$43 million into upgrading low-volume seal standard roads within Oshana and Oshikoto regions. 

The roads that will be upgraded are Engoyi to Omuntele, Oluno to Uukwiyu-Uushona, Engoyi to Onanke district and Omuthiya to Onanke district. 

The upgrading is divided into two phases, with phase one estimated to be completed in the next 10 months.

Phase one will begin with the upgrading of the low-volume seal standard roads of Engoyi to Omuntele and Oluno to Uukwiyu-Uushona, which will be fully funded by the Road Fund Administration.

Roads Authority CEO Conrad Lutombi said phase one of Engoyi to Omuntele road is 16.3 kilometres, and the overall life span of all the low seal standard roads is 15 years.

Lutombi was speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday at Engoyi.

“The construction works on the Oluno to Uukwiyu-Uushona road, which serves as a crucial linkage between Oluno and Uukwiyu-Uushona settlement, includes a segment providing access to the Ondonga palace, and it is about 14.4 kilometres,” said Lutombi.

He further said the road will be constructed over 15 months to the tune of N$36.3 million.

Vice president Nangolo Mbumba said the upgrading of roads to low volume seal standards within Oshana and Oshikoto regions and across the country demonstrates the government’s resolve to improve road infrastructure and enhance the transportation of goods and services.

“Our government recognises the critical role of accessible, modern and well-maintained road infrastructure in fostering progress and prosperity for all our citizens in Namibia,” said Mbumba.

He highlighted that Namibia has a road network of approximately 49 000km, of which nearly 90% are gravel roads.

“We are aware of the fact that roads remain a primary means of transportation mode and play an essential role in contributing to the overall economic growth and development of the country,” said Mbumba.

Roads Contractor Company is the main contractor for phase one and will be assisted by subcontractor Luka Roads and Rail. - maxhenrich356@gmail.com