The Deputy Minister of Education, Arts and Culture, Faustina Caley, has announced that the ministry is working to secure funding and expertise to restore the Owela Exhibition and Educational Centre, which has been closed since February 2020. 

Caley was responding to a question in Parliament from PDM’s Jennifer Van der Heever, who raised concerns about the centre’s prolonged closure and deteriorating condition. The deputy minister explained that the decision to close the facility was due to serious safety risks, including structural and electrical issues that made it unfit for public use.

“Budget constraints and limited financial resources have hindered maintenance, restoration, and modernization efforts. Sustaining the museum requires technical conservation skills, specialized staff, and resources for exhibit renewal and infrastructure rehabilitation, which remain limited,” Caley said.

As part of the ministry’s Accelerated Infrastructure Development Plan, efforts are being made to rehabilitate Owela and other national heritage sites, including Alte Feste, Museum Acre, Independence Memorial Museum, and the Camel Stable. Caley revealed that the ministry has partnered with the Ministry of Works and Transport, as well as other stakeholders, including the Office of the First Lady, Madam Sustjie Mbumba, to secure additional funding for the renovations.

“Fencing of the display center will begin in February 2025, and the entire renovation process is expected to be completed within the 2025 calendar year,” she assured.

The ministry’s plans aim to preserve Namibia’s cultural heritage and ensure that facilities like Owela can once again serve as educational and exhibition hubs for the public.