The more than 219 million dollar Naute-Keetmanshoop water pipeline construction project reflects the principle of sustainable development by investing in long-term economic prosperity instead of responding to escalating crises. 

The minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and  Land Reform, Inge Zaamwani, made the remarks in a speech delivered on her behalf by the ministry's Executive Director Teofilus Nghitila, during the project's groundbreaking ceremony held at Naute Dam.

The 36-kilometre pipeline construction, set to be completed within 18 months, aims to ensure reliability of water supply to Keetmanshoop and surrounding areas. 

Once completed, the pipeline will replace a more than five-decade-old pipeline, which experiences repeated bursts and leakages due to age. 

"This investment comes at the time when the government of the Republic of Namibia has embarked on the implementation of the 6th National Development Plan, which places renewed emphasis on infrastructure development, economic transformation, climate resilience, improved service delivery and enhancement of the quality of life of Namibians."

The Chief Executive Officer of NamWater, Abraham Nehemia, revealed a legal battle over procurement processes has delayed the project implementation for some time. 

"This project underscores our collective responsibility to ensure that Namibia's water infrastructure keeps pace with our development ambitions. NamWater, as the custodian of Namibia's bulk water services, remains fully committed to delivering safe, reliable and sustainable water services."

Matty Hauuanga is the chairperson of NamWater's board. 

"The board has walked every step for this preparatory journey with meticulous care. We are entirely satisfied that the necessary diligence, transparency, and strict compliance with the Public Procurement Act were strictly adhered to at every single stage of this process."

The Keetmanshoop Town Council's political office bearer Emrico Blaauw hailed the project as a major investment for the town's future as well as the region. 

"It represents our collective commitment to strengthening infrastructure, improving service delivery and safeguarding water security for generations to come."

The project is expected to create 50 job opportunities.