Niël Terblanché
The commissioning of two major water infrastructure projects, the Henties Bay Extension and Upgrade Phase 1 and the Kuiseb-Collector 2-Swakopmund Pipeline Replacement Phase 3, strengthened Namibia’s efforts to enhance water security and support socio-economic development.
The event, held in Henties Bay on Friday brought together government officials, stakeholders, and local communities to celebrate this achievement.
Calle Schlettwein, the minister of agriculture, water and land reform during the launch, extolled the vital importance of these projects.
“These projects are a demonstration of our commitment to ensuring that all Namibians, especially those in our central and coastal regions, have reliable access to safe and sustainable water,” he said.
He urged local authorities to prioritize the replacement of ageing water infrastructure to minimize water losses, highlighting how such investments align with Namibia’s vision for sustainable economic growth.
The Henties Bay Extension and Upgrade Phase 1 involves the replacement of 5 kilometres of pipeline and improvements to existing infrastructure.
This initiative is designed to meet the growing water demands driven by population growth, seasonal tourism, and industrial development in the coastal town.
“The timely completion of this project will enable Henties Bay to grow without the fear of water scarcity, improving quality of life and supporting sustainable economic development,” he added.
He added that the Kuiseb-Collector 2-Swakopmund Pipeline Replacement Phase 3 addresses water distribution challenges for the critical coastal hubs of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.
According to Schlettwein, the project replaces outdated pipelines with modern infrastructure, ensuring a reliable water supply to support residential needs and key industries such as mining and fisheries.
“This upgraded system is a long-term investment that enhances efficiency and secures water for future generations,” he said.
Neville Andre, the governor of the Erongo region, pointed to the strategic importance of these developments in addressing challenges posed by rapid urbanization and climate variability.
“The Henties Bay Extension and Upgrade ensure that this vibrant town can meet growing demands, while the Kuiseb-Collector 2-Swakopmund Pipeline Replacement secures water supply for our economic hubs. These are investments in our people’s future and the sustainability of our industries,” he said.
The governor also praised the collaboration between NamWater, contractors like Strydo Construction, and local communities, which has created jobs and fostered economic growth.
NamWater’s chief executive officer, Abraham Nehemia provided an operational perspective, describing the projects as integral to NamWater’s mission of ensuring reliable and sustainable water services. “These projects are central to addressing both immediate and long-term challenges in water supply for Namibia’s central and coastal regions,” he said.
He placed emphasis on building local capacity through partnerships with Namibian businesses, ensuring that the projects contribute to economic empowerment and skill development.
Nehemia added that beyond the immediate benefits, these initiatives reflect a broader strategy to modernize and integrate water infrastructure in the coastal areas.
“With the inclusion of multiple water sources such as the Omdel aquifer, the Orano Desalination Plant, and a future desalination facility at Wlotzka’s Baken, the projects are part of a long-term plan to ensure resilience and sustainability in water supply,” he said.
According to Nehemia, NamWater is building a future where water security supports economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability.
He said that the successful commissioning of the two projects represents a leap forward in Namibia’s journey toward a water-secure future, ensuring that its growing towns and industries are supported by efficient and sustainable water systems.
