Erongo Governor Neville Andre says the region continues to suffer from one of the most devastating droughts in recent years.

Addressing the Ministry of Agriculture's performance workshop in Swakopmund, André specifically referred to areas in Otjombingwe District of Karibib Constituency and the Daures Constituency that have experienced drought for the past eight years.

Andre emphasised that the prolonged dry spells have significantly impacted farmers, rural communities, and livestock, posing a serious threat to livelihoods and food security.

The governor pointed out that water scarcity remains among the most urgent challenges, and while efforts have been made to address it, the need for more assistance to accelerate access to water cannot be overemphasised.

It is imperative, he says, that they fast-track the delivery of water infrastructure, including borehole drilling, desalination plants, and the expansion of rural water supply networks.

To respond to the water situation, the region's leadership established the Erongo Water Crisis Committee, which assessed the water challenges in the region and found water losses in the system to be among the major challenges.

The losses are a result of water leakages in the system, vandalised infrastructure, and illegal water connections.

However, he says, the slow response to critical water needs in many parts of the Erongo Region has further exacerbated the suffering of the people, and this must be urgently addressed.

"One of the key concerns that must be highlighted today is the slow response of the Rural Water Supply Office, here in the Erongo Region, in addressing critical water shortages.The delayed intervention in times of crisis has left many communities struggling to access this essential resource. This office plays a vital role in ensuring that rural areas receive the necessary water supply, yet it is clear that capacity constraints have hindered its efficiency."

He further added that farmers, who form the backbone of food production and economic sustainability in the region, require timely support services and incentives to adapt to these difficult conditions.

"I therefore propose that urgent measures be taken to capacitate the Rural Water Supply Office, whether through increased funding, additional personnel, or improved logistical support. A well-equipped and responsive water supply office is essential to ensuring that we can act swiftly in times of need and prevent prolonged hardships in our communities