N$190m contract for Naute–Keetmanshoop pipeline replacement awarded

The long-delayed project to replace the ageing Naute–Keetmanshoop water pipeline is finally moving ahead after the Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) awarded the construction contract to Adaptive Building Land Construction CC in joint venture with China State Engineering Corporation.The 18-month project, valued at just over N$191 million excluding VAT, is fully funded by NamWater and is expected to significantly improve water supply reliability to Keetmanshoop and surrounding communities.The contract was signed on 23 September, followed by the official site handover on 3 October. Work on the project was held up for nearly two years due to legal challenges from unsuccessful bidders, but construction is now underway after a court ruling in favour of CPBN and NamWater.NamWater said the project marks “a critical upgrade” to the southern region’s bulk water infrastructure. Once complete, the new pipeline will replace the deteriorating steel line that has suffered repeated leaks and bursts over the years.Phase 1The first phase involves constructing a 36-kilometre clear-water pipeline that will run parallel to the existing one, with some sections sharing the same trench. The new line will use 450-millimetre Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) pipes, designed for longer service life and better resistance to corrosion.NamWater’s Civil Engineering Department will oversee design and supervision, while the contractor will execute the works under the Public Procurement Act. About 50 local jobs are expected to be created during construction, bringing short-term economic benefits to the //Kharas Region.Ageing systemThe Naute–Keetmanshoop Water Supply Scheme, commissioned in 1972, is one of Namibia’s main bulk water systems. It draws water from the Naute Dam, located about 45 kilometres southwest of Keetmanshoop, which holds 83.6 million cubic metres and yields 12 million cubic metres per year.Water is treated at the Naute Water Treatment Plant, currently operating below its design capacity due to ageing infrastructure. The existing 43-kilometre steel pipeline, built in 1971, has become prone to frequent failures, threatening the region’s water security. Only 7.4 kilometres were replaced in 2011, leaving the rest in critical condition.NamWater said the replacement project reaffirms its commitment to delivering safe, reliable and sustainable water services to support Namibia’s socio-economic development.

N$190m contract for Naute–Keetmanshoop pipeline replacement awarded

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-11

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N$190m contract for Naute–Keetmanshoop pipeline replacement awarded

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-11

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