Relief for Onjuva community

The community of Onjuva in the Kunene Region again have access to potable water following the construction of a borehole, along with the installation of water purification and softening systems for the Onjuva clinic.The N$1.4 million (US$98 821) project was funded by the United States Africa Command (USAFRICOM) and can also used by the community.Onjuva is located some 200 kilometre west of Opuwo in a very remote location, coupled with bad roads which makes it difficult for community members to access better services.The community borehole that also used to supply water to the clinic collapsed some years ago and following the inauguration of a new clinic for the community in June 2017, which was funded by both USAFRICOM and the health ministry, the health minister Bernard Haufiku made a request to the United States Embassy to assist in rehabilitating the borehole.On behalf of the community, the head nurse of the Onjuva clinic, Jeremia Freeman, welcomed the borehole and purifier saying it is a relief for the community.“Following the collapse of the community borehole, water had to be transported via a pick-up truck with water tanks from a nearby community campsite’s borehole at great expense,” Freeman said.We will ensure that we will continue to provide health services in a sanitary environment to the surrounding community. We also express our gratitude to the US government in answering the community’s call for help. Water from the new borehole is of a much higher quality than before due to the filtration and purifying system.”According to the Lieutenant-Colonel John Lacy, the senior defence official and defence attaché for the embassy, reaching Onjuva community was no easy feat, especially with the transportation of the necessary drilling equipment. “It is essentially a two-day drive from Windhoek. The site is very remote and can only be reached by roads that are, in some places, barely better than 4x4 trails,” Lacy said.Geo Pollution Technologies was contracted to perform the work.STAFF REPORTER

Relief for Onjuva community

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-14

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Relief for Onjuva community

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-14

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