Stop illegal canal connections, vandalism, NamWater pleads

NamWater has issued an urgent appeal to Omusati residents living near the Ombafi and Ogongo canals to stop illegally diverting water from the canals to fill oshanas for fishing, which leads to water supply disruptions as well as infrastructure breakages.NamWater spokesperson Lot Ndamanomhata said the water utility has observed an alarming practice in which residents syphon water from the canals.Ndamanomhata said these unauthorised activities have led to a significant drop in water levels, directly affecting the raw water supply to both the Ogongo and Oshakati water treatment plants.“These plants supply potable water to thousands of residents, and any disruption poses a serious risk to water security in the region,” he said.Structural damage to the canalNdamanomhata said individuals are digging trenches along the canal embankment to redirect water into the oshanas.This practice, he said, is severely weakening the canal’s structure, causing breaks and long-term infrastructure damage.“These repeated incidents, which occur annually during the rainy season, increase the risk of costly repairs, water losses and further disruptions to supply,” he explained. He added that NamWater has made several efforts to engage with the community to highlight the consequences of these actions.“Despite these engagements, the problem persists. Law enforcement authorities have also participated in discussions but indicate that legal proof of law violations is required before action can be taken."He urged the public to report any acts of vandalism or unauthorised water usage to NamWater or local law enforcement.Vandalism Omusati governor Erginus Endjala confirmed that he has held several meetings to engage with the public on the issue.Endjala issued a stern warning to Omusati residents, stating that his office will take severe action against anyone who attempts to damage or privatise water from the canal.“Everyone should have access to water,” he stressed, emphasising that damaging or privatising the canal is unacceptable and that anyone interrupting the water flow will face serious consequences.

Stop illegal canal connections, vandalism, NamWater pleads

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

Please login to leave a comment

Stop illegal canal connections, vandalism, NamWater pleads

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

Please login to leave a comment

Login