Rundu streetlight project on track, says Amutse

Industries, mines and energy minister Modestus Amutse says the long-awaited streetlights project for Rundu is moving forward.

He confirmed that financial commitments have been finalised and the project is expected to kick off soon.

“The work has already been given. We have already taken a decision and committed the money,” Amutse told Namibian Sun last week, adding that the project is now awaiting contractors to commence physical implementation.

The development follows a visit by Amutse to Rundu in December, where he assessed electricity access and ongoing energy projects in the region.

During that visit, he indicated that the days of Rundu being “shrouded in darkness after sunset” could soon be over, as plans were underway to install streetlights across the town.

Speaking to Namibian Sun in a follow-up interview last week, Amutse said the Rundu Town Council submitted priority areas for electrification following his visit.

Those areas have been assessed and approved at a ministerial level.

He noted that a company has already been identified for the works, which will include streetlights and high-mast lighting in selected areas.

Finalising last details

However, he said he could not yet disclose full project figures, indicating that detailed costs will be shared during a future commissioning or inauguration event.

Amutse explained that the ministry is now waiting for progress reports from the implementing institution and contractors before work can fully proceed on the ground.

He also clarified that the project may be implemented through the state-owned electricity distributor Nored or other contracted service providers, depending on technical arrangements.

“At the moment, I cannot confirm whether Nored will be the contractor or whether subcontractors will be used, but what is certain is that the commitment has been made and implementation has been approved,” he said.

The minister also warned against delays in electrification planning, stressing that urban expansion without proper lighting infrastructure remains a concern.

Rundu police station commander Hermine Muranda welcomed the initiative.

She said improved street lighting would play a critical role in crime prevention and detection, noting that darkness has been a major challenge in combating crime.

Suspects often take advantage of poorly lit areas to commit offences and escape unnoticed.

Muranda said virtually all residential areas in Rundu, including Sauyemwa, Ndama, Kehemu and Tutugeni, are affected by poor night visibility and have also been identified as crime-prone zones.

“It will assist a lot. Seriously. Even for people walking early in the morning, they will be safe,” she said.