Martin Endjala
Namwater will construct a purification plant extension in Oshakati.
The company’s chief strategy and corporate affairs officer, Kadiva Hamutumwa, said this is due to the demand for water in the town.
“We need another purification plant because the demand for water supply has risen and surpassed our ability with the current purification plant,” she said.
She said the new capacity will increase its existing production, currently at 40 000 cubic metres per day, to 90 000 cubic metres per day.
Last week, Namwater put out a notice inviting bids for the construction contract for the purification plant extension and associated works.
The plant’s construction follows the government’s receipt of N$1.8 billion in funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB) in 2020 as part of the Namibia Water Sector Support Programme project.
The minister of agriculture, water, and land reform, Calle Schlettwein, said the funds form part of the construction of the Ohangwena II Well Field Water Supply Schemes (WSS) Project, the Oshakati new purification plant, and many other related projects.
“Our access to potable water supply currently in the country stands at 87%, and we are committed to closing the gap and extending water supply to the remaining 13% in the shortest possible time,” he said.
He said the government has committed to contributing N$1.5 billion to ensure the successful implementation of all Namibia Water Sector Support Water Support program projects.
Schlettwein said the program will be rolled out to all regions.
The minister stated that it is impossible to overstate the economic and social impact of this project. Adding to that, access to clean, safe water is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of public health.
He said it is essential for industry and overall socio-economic development.
The construction of the Rundu Water Treatment Plant Extension and associated works also commence to enhance water security and support sustainable development in the Kavango East and Kavango West regions.
The construction work will cost N$665 million.
The bid submission for the Oshakati should be done on or before 11 a.m. on 28 August. An unconditional bank guarantee of N$19 million must accompany all bids.
