Mbango slams NamWater Kavango extraction plan

Rundu Rural constituency councillor Paulus Mbango has criticised NamWater’s plan to extract water from the Kavango River for supply to central Namibia, saying it is unfair to communities in Kavango East and West who still lack basic access to clean water.

The N$7 billion project, approved in February 2024, aims to address shortages in the Central Area of Namibia and is expected to be completed within five to seven years.

Mbango said the plan ignores the reality of residents living along the river.

“People here have been competing with crocodiles for water,” he said. “It’s illogical to take water away while locals don’t have access.”

He called for government to prioritise pipeline development in the region and criticised what he described as a lack of consultation with local leaders.

Mbango also questioned the project’s long-term sustainability, warning that climate variability could affect river levels. He suggested instead that water-intensive industries be decentralised to Kavango.

NamWater defends project

NamWater spokesperson Ndamanomhata said consultations are ongoing and comply with the Environmental Management Act, with 11 public meetings already held.

He said the utility is also expanding local supply through the Rundu Extension Project Phase 2, which will extend pipelines to surrounding communities.

Less than 1% of the Kavango River’s wet-season flow will be abstracted for domestic use, including Windhoek, he added.

“Specialist studies confirm that the planned abstraction will not materially affect the river,” Ndamanomhata said, adding that the project remains the most viable option for national water security.

The project seeks to balance national demand with equitable access for communities along the Kavango River, according to NamWater.