Oshakati sewage overflows

Oshakati residents are unhappy with the stench of sewage coming from nearby oxidation ponds, which have been overflowing into the downstream oshanas and homesteads.

The sewer started overflowing some time ago, residents said. Tractors have poured sand on the overflow to try and block it from overflowing but it has not helped.

Inhabitants told Namibian Sun on Saturday that the construction of more ponds and the proper rehabilitation of existing infrastructure could be the solution to the problem.

They attributed the overflow to the town's fast growth.

The council's spokesperson, Katarina Kamari, on Saturday said she was not aware of the problem but would speak to a technical team “to have it sorted”.

Danger

Although in the past, residents have been warned not to catch or consume fish taken from the sewage water, because of the health risks, a number of residents were fishing at the ponds on Saturday.

Children’s footprints could also be seen near the water, an indication that children play in the water during the day, which the residents confirmed.

"This sewer water smells badly and is a health hazard. The dam is also used by people in remote areas, and when the water mixes with the dirty water, they have nowhere to get clean water. Some people walk through that water and they later get allergies, "a resident, who only identified himself as Daleniveni, said.

The most affected areas are Okaku Kiipupu, Shandubala, Nendongo, Oshamale and Oshimbangu.

In the past, Oshakati leadership admitted that the council faces a challenge with the overflowing oxidation ponds, and said a new treatment plant is needed soon to accommodate the planned development in town, as the current ones cannot withstand more pressure.

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