Niël Terblanché
NamWater has refuted circulating rumours about an imminent water cut in the Cuvelai area, which forms part of the utility company’s business unit in northwestern parts of the country.
According to a statement issued by Lot Ndamanomhata, the spokesperson of NamWater, these claims, spread across various platforms, are untrue.
“These claims are entirely without basis and do not reflect any plans or intentions from NamWater,” he said.
Ndamanomhata reassured the public that no such disruptions are planned, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining a consistent and reliable water supply across all regions.
He said that in response to ongoing water supply challenges, NamWater has adopted a proactive stance through its five-year strategy, aimed at enhancing service efficiency and delivery.
“A recent workshop held in Ondangwa on 23-24 September 2024, in collaboration with the Directorate of Rural Water Supply, focused on addressing key issues such as low water pressure and outdated infrastructure,” he said.
Ndamanomhate added that this initiative reflects NamWater’s efforts to ensure that all customers, including those in the North West, receive optimal service without any disruption to their water supply.
“NamWater’s Retail Strategy, currently in its early phases, highlights its long-term objective to improve water access without causing any interruptions, particularly in the northern regions of Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshikoto, and Oshana,” he said.
NamWater said the rumours run against a backdrop of widespread concerns over potential water shortages and supply challenges in northern Namibia.
The rumours of water cuts follow a series of ongoing challenges that NamWater has been facing in its northern operations.
NamWater has acknowledged difficulties in meeting water demand in the northern regions, with supply deficits partly caused by rapid population growth and industrial expansion.
The high demand, especially in areas served by the Oshakati Water Treatment Plant, has strained resources, leading to rationing in some regions.
According to Ndamanomhata, rural areas have faced supply disruptions due to low water pressure and insufficient infrastructure, but NamWater has been working on various measures to address these issues, including deploying water tankers and rationing supplies during off-peak hours.
Ndamanomhata called on the public to rely on official channels for updates.
“Customers should disregard any misleading or unofficial information,” he urged, adding that only NamWater’s communication regarding water supply should be trusted.
Ndamanomhata acknowledged that NamWater is facing some operational challenges in certain regions, particularly due to demand exceeding supply in the northern areas, there are no plans for water cuts in the Cuvelai area.
“NamWater will continue to work towards improving infrastructure and ensuring that water access remains uninterrupted for all its customers,” he said.
