MARIENTAL – Chairperson of the Hardap Farmers Association and Crop Producers’ Association board member Dawie de Klerk expressed excitement about the positive impact the 100% water supply to the Hardap Irrigation Scheme will have on the farmers and surrounding communities.

“We can plant fully but unfortunately, it’s too late to plant maize this season, so the farmers opted to plant beans instead,” he shared with Nampa on Thursday.

The Hardap irrigation scheme, a key contributor to the regional economy, had its water supply suspended in October 2024 when dam levels dropped to a critical 5.5%.

A 12 February 2025 statement from NamWater said after consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, the Hardap Farmers Association’s request was approved to increase water supply to the Hardap Irrigation Scheme to 100%, following comprehensive dry-run analysis and positive inflows into the Hardap Dam.

This decision was influenced by the recent inflow of water, which improved the capacity of the dam, allowing irrigation activities to proceed at full capacit, while ensuring sustainable water supply for the region.

NamWater said this will help sustain livelihoods and preserve jobs in Mariental and surrounding areas, strengthening the local economy and agricultural productivity.

It also said irrigation water will be available until the end of September 2025, and potable water security is assured for domestic use until February 2027.

De Klerk said it will obviously have a positive effect on the town’s economy. -Nampa