NamWater is working on the rehabilitation of its canal in an effort to ensure that the northern communities have access to an ample supply of clean drinking water.
Two particularly significant portions, Omahenene and Olushandja, have already undergone thorough refurbishment, incurring costs that exceed N$60 million.
In an exclusive interview with nbc News, NamWater CEO Abraham Nehemia says the water utility is committed to constructing a cutting-edge water treatment facility to ensure abundant water supply for the residents of the northern regions, specifically Oshana, Omusati, Oshikoto, and Ohangwena.
Nehemia went on to underline the intricate nature of the canal's restoration work, which involves substantial quantities of concrete and steel. This comprehensive approach is aimed at ensuring the canal's long-lasting durability.
"But the northern Namibia area needs this because this is the water that goes to all the four regions in this area, and the demand is quite high. If you look at what water we used to pump before independence and what we are pumping today, there is really a lot of water that is required, and the old canal can no longer supply that water that is required for the water treatment plant in Oshakati."
Considering the financial limitations stemming from the substantial expenses associated with the project, Nehemia disclosed that NamWater intends to refurbish the entire canal in stages, aligning with the availability of funds.
This strategic investment holds paramount importance in maintaining a dependable water distribution system across these regions.
"This is to be done by NamWater's technical team; this is not tendered out; we're doing it in house. The idea is to have sufficient water for the Oshakati treatment plant. Cost-wise, this canal, as you understand, is more than 150 kilometres all the way from Omahenene border post to Oshakati. The one we did between Omahenene and Olushanja cost us N$60 million, and one can make a calculation to see how much it will cost us all the way."
Tender advertisements for the construction of the multimillion-dollar water treatment plant have been published, with the actual work expected to kick off early next year.