A bulk water infrastructure project aimed at helping to reduce cost and surging water debt at Otavi has been inaugurated by Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa.
Currently, the town's water debt is over N$70 million.
Sankwasa welcomed the project's implementation, which includes a new bulk water pipeline, the rehabilitation and connection of a borehole, an elevated water tower, and preparations for the town's water master plan.
The N$7.5 million phase of the project is a partnership between Otavi Town Council, B2Gold Namibia and the Urban and Rural Development Ministry.
"Today, in addition to handing over this phase 1 of the water infrastructure project, we are proud to inaugurate a number of other key initiatives, one being the water infrastructure project 2, which comprises a water treatment plant and a groundwater reservoir that will be funded by B2Gold," said Sankwasa.
The town currently sells water for N$16 per cubic metre, plus value-added tax.
However, with the commissioning of the project, the council is likely to lower its tariff, a move Sankwasa welcomed, saying it will have a positive impact on those in informal areas.
Otavi Mayor Isaac !Hoaeb says the implementation of such a project speaks to the fundamental right of access to clean water.
"Today, we celebrate the tangible fruits of collaboration, commitment and development vision – projects that speak to the core of human dignity, access to clean water, decent housing, functional infrastructure and inclusive urban development."
!Hoaeb added that through collaborative efforts, the council hopes to work with stakeholders to address the lack of proper roads, stormwater infrastructure, oxidation ponds and landfill expansions.
B2 Gold Namibia's Country Manager, John Ross, said investment in the project is part of the company's corporate social responsibility.
"We believe in leaving a legacy. Making sure that when we operate in a region or country, we leave it in a better state than we found it. We also believe in making a sustainable difference. Instead of distributing food parcels or t-shirts, we prioritise investing in projects that have a lasting impact."