NamWater advances N$1bn-plus expansion programme

NamWater is pressing ahead with a series of major water infrastructure projects aimed at expanding treatment capacity, improving water quality and strengthening supply reliability across northern and coastal Namibia.

Regarding the Oshakati Purification Plant Extension, NamWater said the project involves expanding the existing water treatment capacity to meet growing demand in the Oshana Region.

On the Rundu Purification Plant Extension, the utility said the project is aimed at improving water quality and supply reliability in the Kavango East and Kavango West regions.

"This project is aimed at improving water quality and supply reliability in the Kavango East and West Regions. The project includes the installation of advanced treatment technologies and increased storage capacity," NamWater said.

The Ohangwena II Wellfield – Phase 1 project focuses on drilling and equipping new boreholes, constructing collector pipelines and reservoirs to supply water to underserved communities in northern Namibia. The project is funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB).

As of the 2024/25 financial year, NamWater said several AfDB-funded projects are actively under construction, including the Oshakati Purification Plant Extension, whose construction contract was awarded for N$712 million. The project is expected to be completed in 2027.

The Rundu Purification Plant Extension, awarded at a cost of N$650 million, is expected to be completed in early 2026.

NamWater also highlighted the Omafo–Eenhana Extension (Ohangwena II Wellfield), which is expected to improve water supply in the Ohangwena Region.

The utility is also replacing the ageing Ogongo-to-Oshakati pipeline, with N$236.7 million earmarked for the project. The works involve replacing 52.4 kilometres of asbestos-cement pipeline with modern materials.

"This upgrade will enhance water delivery to Oshakati, Oshikuku, and surrounding areas, addressing frequent breakdowns and low pressure," NamWater said.

The utility is also planning upgrades to the Kuiseb and Omdel-to-Swakopmund Pipeline Rehabilitation project, which includes replacing approximately 18 kilometres of critical pipeline sections to ensure a reliable water supply to the coastal town of Swakopmund.

NamWater further identified the refurbishment of the Olushandja-to-Ogongo Canal as a key project to reduce water losses and improve conveyance efficiency. The project forms part of infrastructure developments to be funded by Germany's development bank, KfW.

Under the second tranche of KfW funding, NamWater said support will also be provided for the Omundaungilo-to-Omutsegwonime Water Supply Scheme.

"A new pipeline and pumping system to connect remote communities in Ohangwena and Oshikoto to a reliable water source," the utility said.

Also included is the Oshakati-Ondangwa-Omutsegwonime Water Supply Scheme, which will involve the construction of an additional pipeline between Oshakati and Ondangwa, as well as the replacement of the existing pipeline between Ondangwa and Omutsegwonime.

In north-western Namibia, NamWater said work will also be undertaken on the Katima Mulilo Extension – Phase 2, which will further expand the town's water supply infrastructure to accommodate urban growth.