Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) leader, McHenry Venaani has expressed concerns regarding the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform’s decision to enlist external consultants for the feasibility study of the second phase of the Neckartal Dam Irrigation Project.
Venaani questioned the prudence of allocating extensive resources to external expertise when capable in-house staff could effectively handle the task.
“The potential extensive resources to be allocated towards the recruitment of external consultants are arguably reflective of a gross misallocation when these funds could be significantly reduced or even eradicated,” he said.
While acknowledging the objective of enhancing agricultural efficiency for the Namibian community, Venaani emphasised the potential for a more cost-effective approach.
He asserted that the ministry possesses experienced and capable personnel within its ranks, equipped with the necessary expertise to undertake preliminary designs, tender documentation, contract administration, and site supervision.
Delegating these tasks to in-house staff, according to Venaani, would not only symbolise a smart and frugal way forward but also free up funds for other critical areas such as water accessibility and mechanised agricultural development.
“The Ministry has within its realm, able and experienced staff endowed with the necessary know-how to produce preliminary designs, tender documentation, as well as the ability to undertake contract administration and site supervision,” stated Venaani.
He further argued that utilising in-house talent not only demonstrates faith in the Ministry’s skills but also avoids unnecessary expenses associated with external consultants.
Moreover, Venaani urged Minister Calle Schlettwein to reconsider the current strategy, and rather advocate for fiscal responsibility and a more optimised allocation of resources.
“It is therefore imperative MAWLR judiciously utilises the collective wisdom of its staff, thereby making the best use of its resources,” emphasised Venaani.
The second phase of the ongoing multibillion-dollar Neckartal Dam irrigation project will cost the government an additional N$2.4 billion.
The initial phase of the project was completed at a cost of N$5.6 billion in 2018.
MAWLR has been allocated a total of N$2.4 billion in the 2023/24 financial year, a 22.1 percent increase from last year for the second phase, which requires building canals, spill points, and booster pump stations.
Neckartal is the largest dam in the country, with almost twice the total capacity of existing major dams. Its current water level stands at 94.4 percent capacity as of Tuesday this week.
