Erongo Regional Governor Natalia |Goagoses has pointed to the region's strong mining, fishing, tourism, and trade sectors as key drivers that should help improve living conditions for all residents.
Erongo has a population of over 240,000, and |Goagoses noted that this growth in population calls for an urgent expansion of infrastructure for improved service delivery.
Speaking during her State of the Region Address, she, however, warned that unequal access to basic services, infrastructure, and education still prevents many communities from fully benefiting from this economic strength.
Water scarcity, especially in rural areas, was identified as one of the major problems.
The region now plans to invest N$50 million in pipeline upgrades for Okombahe and N$8 million for Uis to reduce dependence on coastal water treatment plants.
She reported that over N$140 million is being spent on road upgrades and more than N$200 million has been invested in electricity connection projects by Erongo RED.
Improvements in education, healthcare, and law enforcement, including new schools, renovation of hospitals, and additional police stations, are also in the pipeline.
"Our role going forward is to turn misfortunes into opportunities. Working in collaboration with the Regional Council, local authorities, state-owned enterprises, and other key stakeholders, we will address them."
Mining remains the backbone of the region's economy, with nine of Namibia's 26 mines located there.
Corporate social responsibility efforts by mining companies exceeded N$80 million in 2024, but she called for better coordination to ensure that benefits reach those in need.
She also gave an update on the tourism sector, saying, "During the period under review, the tourism sector experienced a substantial recovery following the global downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Room occupancy increased to 60% for tourist arrivals locally, regionally, and internationally. The Namibia Tourism Sector Recovery Plan (2022-2024), which has been at the centre of the tourism boom, is being successfully implemented in the region."