Omusati villages’ six-year struggle for water

Since 2020, three villages in the Omusati Region have been struggling with a persistent water crisis, particularly during the dry season.Iikokola community representative Samuel Shikesho told Namibian Sun that their water source runs dry each dry season, severely restricting access to drinking water.He added that the pressure pump at Ogongo Water Plant is unable to supply their area.As a result, residents are compelled to purchase water from NamWater, with each household contributing N$10, he said.“The water we buy serves approximately 130 households, but the delivery takes a long time. For instance, we ordered water in July of this year, yet we only received it in September. We urge for this process to be expedited, or we request a new borehole to assist us during the dry season,” he said.Shikesho emphasised that this is not their first appeal for assistance.In 2023, the community held a peaceful demonstration, demanding a new borehole, but their requests went unanswered.Trying to fix itOmusati governor Immanuel Shikongo acknowledged the situation and confirmed his office is aware of the water challenges.Shikongo informed Namibian Sun that the issue extends beyond these three villages, as many areas in Omusati suffer from a lack of water, particularly during dry spells.“What is disheartening is that both livestock and residents lack access to water, as all earth dams are dry,” he said.He said the Ogongo Water Plant pressure pump, installed many years ago, can no longer accommodate the growing population.“Currently, we are constructing a replacement for the pressure pump, which is expected to be completed by early January next year. This new pump will serve numerous villages currently facing water shortages,” he said.He cautioned that the new pump may not provide coverage to all villages, as residents in Omusati continue to build homes in remote areas that limit their ability to connect.He urged communities to consult relevant authorities to confirm water access prior to constructing houses.In addition to the ongoing pipeline construction, Shikongo suggested extending the Otamanzi pipeline to help connect nearby villages to the main pipeline.Shikongo acknowledged the communities' frustrations and assured them that efforts are underway to secure access to potable water.

Omusati villages’ six-year struggle for water

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Namibian Sun 2026-10-09

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Omusati villages’ six-year struggle for water

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Namibian Sun 2026-10-09

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