A major milestone during the reporting period of the Erongo region is the upgrading of Uis from a settlement to a local authority, making it the eighth local authority in the region.
Deputy Minister of Justice and Labour Relations Inecia Brandt said this development strengthens local governance, improves planning capacity and positions the area to benefit from growth in mining, tourism and related investment opportunities.
The Erongo region achieved infrastructure milestones during the 2026-27 financial year, including the completion and commissioning of the N$32 million bulk water pipeline project, which improved water supply resilience for communities in the area.
Brandt informed the house that major road projects also progressed, including the C35 Swakopmund-Walvis Bay road and other key road infrastructure, with combined investments running into N$ billions.
“The regional economy remained resilient and strategically important in Namibia. Mining, logistics, tourism, manufacturing, and renewable energy continued to drive growth. The mining sector employed more than 8,600 people and generated local procurement exceeding N$14.5 billion, its strongest contribution to the regional economy.”
Social development also received focused attention.
“The integration of the N$27 million neo-natural intensive care unit at Swakopmund District Hospital marks an important investment in maternal and child health. Social protection programmes supported more than 32,000 beneficiaries. While youth development initiatives expand opportunities in entrepreneurship, skills training, sports, and national youth service participation, these interventions are better because regional development must ultimately be measured by improvements in people's lives.”
Brandt, however, stated that education and skills development remain central to the region's future, while efforts are underway to expand school infrastructure, community learning opportunities, and technical and vocational education, and reported education outcomes still require continued attention.