Rundu: A riverside community ravaged by thirst

Rundu’s current water crisis, which has left thousands of residents without a reliable supply, was long predicted by earlier reports - but the warnings were ignored.Projections from years ago warned that Rundu could face severe water shortages by 2020 if infrastructure upgrades were not made.Today, those projections have become a harsh reality, as the town grapples with an ever-growing population that has outpaced its ageing water infrastructure.During a meeting yesterday about the town&#039;s water challenges with urban and rural development minister Erastus Uutoni, Rundu mayor Gabriel Kanyanga said despite efforts to address the problem, the situation has now reached a critical point. “Rundu&#039;s water issue revolves around a rapidly growing population, growing faster than the infrastructure we currently have. Starting from the riverside and the reservoir, the existing infrastructure is not keeping up with the population&#039;s needs,” he said."As a council, we’ve been in communication with NamWater, the [Kavango East] governor and the chairperson of the regional council regarding this issue for years. When I reviewed previous reports, it was clear that by 2020, Rundu could face water challenges. Unfortunately, those projections have come true.”Lack of fundingTo address the water crisis immediately, Kanyanga suggested drilling boreholes in the hardest-hit areas - including Ndama, Sunshine and Sauyemwa - adding that while this could provide some relief, the process has stalled due to a lack of funding."In collaboration with the water ministry, we identified 21 potential sites for boreholes. After inspections, it was confirmed that drilling in these areas would help alleviate the water shortages. However, the process is currently on hold due to financial constraints. We are hopeful that funding will soon be secured to proceed with the boreholes. Once completed, they will offer a short-term solution to the crisis,” he said.The mayor added that NamWater has already begun work on the site for the largest water treatment plant, which will significantly improve Rundu’s water supply once completed. “This upgrade is crucial for long-term stability, but until then, we must rely on immediate solutions like boreholes.”I hear youUutoni acknowledged the growing frustration among residents. "I hear the outcry—it’s strong, very strong. I wondered why it’s becoming louder than us, as a team. It shouldn’t be that way. So, I suggested that we come together, reorganise our efforts, and figure out how to overcome the challenges ahead," he said.“Before leaving for Rundu, I spoke to the minister of finance [Ipumbu Shiimi]. I said ‘my brother, I’m heading to Rundu, and you’re aware of the water crisis. Be ready for whatever is needed to help us resolve this’. The minister is ready, but we need to work out the details on how to proceed,” he said.Long time comingThe issue of water scarcity in Rundu has been dragging on for years. Four months ago, residents of Ndama’s Sun City and Long to Long settlements told Namibian Sun that they have been without potable water since September last year, forcing them to cut pipes in a desperate bid to access what has become a rare commodity at the riverside town.As it stands, many residents are forced to travel long distances to fetch water, often facing dangerous situations, especially at night, when encounters with criminals and poisonous elements are common.nikanor@erongo.com.na

Rundu: A riverside community ravaged by thirst

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-02

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Rundu: A riverside community ravaged by thirst

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-02

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