Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare challenged Namibia to accelerate investment in water infrastructure, expand desalination capacity and ensure that every household has access to reliable water supplies, he was speaking at the water symposium.

Dr Ngurare called for urgent intervention in communities facing water shortages.

The office of the Prime Minister has since directed NamWater and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform to address the crisis in the Otamanzi, Tsandi and Okahao constituencies.

Dr Ngurare said the government has committed more than one billion dollars to the water sector, with over 867 million dollars earmarked for infrastructure development, maintenance and rehabilitation.

“We must also ensure that new infrastructure is accompanied by adequate provision for operation and maintenance. A completed project fulfils its purpose when it continues to serve communities effectively throughout its intended lifespan.”

International partnerships are also supporting major investments, including US$1.8 billion mobilised through the African Development Bank and a 75 million Euro facility from the Germany's KfW.

“These commitments support practical interventions, including the construction of new earth dams, the rehabilitation of existing water networks and the expansion of rural water harvesting infrastructure. Behind every allocation is a responsibility to deliver.”

He emphasised Namibia's long-term water security depends on building local expertise and investing in the next generation.