Floods cause havoc in northern Namibia

Floodwaters in the northern regions, which have caused havoc by destroying roads and submerging homes – forcing residents to relocate to higher ground – have also led to the closure of 87 schools, affecting over 30 000 learners.The Ohangwena, Omusati and Oshana regions are the hardest hit, with some classrooms destroyed by floodwaters.Meanwhile, senior agriculture ministry hydrologist Leonard Hango told Namibian Sun that the flood wave which crossed the border earlier this month has now reached Oshakati and the central areas of the Cuvelai basin, leading to a noticeable rise in water levels in rivers, streams and other affected areas.Hango said that along the Angolan border, flooding is gradually stabilising as the water runs southwards towards Etosha – a positive indication that, as the water recedes, schools may soon be able to resume lessons.“We are still cautioning everybody in the vicinity to exercise high precaution measures when crossing the streams to avoid drowning,” he said, adding that those living in affected areas should remain vigilant.Hango said the Omusati Region continues to experience significant flooding, with the most affected areas concentrated in the Ogongo constituency, as well as Elim, Outapi and Anamulenge.Cut off Roads Authority chief executive Conrad Lutombi visited the affected areas last week and has appointed David Sheehama David of Kambwa Construction to repair the Onamutuku–Onkani road (DR3643).Elim councillor Gerhard Shiimi said the Shoni–Onaanda–Omapopo road (DR3619), which has been inundated, has cut off residents from accessing essential services.Lutombi assured residents that the Roads Authority is working around the clock to ensure that the roads are temporarily restored by the end of this week to allow travel during the Easter break.Statistics released by Oshana regional education director Pauline Shapumba show that a total of 5 371 learners have been affected in the region.Ohangwena governor Sebastian Ndeitunga said 302 schools have been affected, with 16 temporarily closed and six suspending classes for lower primary grades (grades zero to three).He said the closure of these schools has affected more than 7 221 learners in the region.

Floods cause havoc in northern Namibia

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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Floods cause havoc in northern Namibia

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-01

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