National News

Allexer Namundjembo Regional councillors in the country’s northern regions are urging the government to prioritise the renovation and construction of earth dams to address water shortages. As the country expects normal to above-normal rainfall in the coming months, councillors argue that these dams could help store floodwaters for later use, benefiting communities and agriculture. Okatyali Constituency councillor Joseph Mupetami highlighted the need for the government and NamWater to construct dams along main water pipelines supplying communities. “Constructing new dams may be costly and time-consuming. However, prioritising the renovation of existing earth dams could significantly address our water challenges. In my…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The residents of Grootfontein are growing increasingly frustrated as mud-coloured water continues to flow from taps. This affected especially the Mini-town, Luiperdheuwel, and Extensions 7, 8, and 9, as well as parts of Tuliang. The issue, which has persisted for weeks, stems from ongoing repairs at the Buitekamp Boreholes and Water Reservoir. Emmerencia Ndara, a resident of Luiperdheuwel, said they rely on clean water for their daily needs. “It is unacceptable that we have to deal with brown water for an extended period,” said Ndara. Many residents took to social media to express their frustration. “This is the…

Niël Terblanché NamWater has refuted circulating rumours about an imminent water cut in the Cuvelai area, which forms part of the utility company’s business unit in northwestern parts of the country. According to a statement issued by Lot Ndamanomhata, the spokesperson of NamWater, these claims, spread across various platforms, are untrue. “These claims are entirely without basis and do not reflect any plans or intentions from NamWater,” he said. Ndamanomhata reassured the public that no such disruptions are planned, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining a consistent and reliable water supply across all regions. He said that in response to ongoing…

Niël Terblanché Fifty-seven mayors from across the country convened at Swakopmund to discuss the future of local governance challenges last week for their annual general meeting (AGM) of the National Mayors Forum. The discussions at the AGM centred on a wide range of issues, including governance, infrastructure, economic development, and sustainability. The forum was hailed by Swakopmund mayor Dina Namubes as an opportunity for productive discussions aimed at enhancing the sustainability and progress of Namibia’s municipalities. In her opening address, Namubes highlighted the significance of the gathering, describing the mayors as “vibrant leaders” committed to creating a better future for…

Ester Mbathera The Ministry of Health and Social Services has spent N$2.7 million to fence off the land for the construction of Windhoek District Hospital. The ministry’s executive director, Ben Nangombe, said this in a statement on Thursday while outlining the activities that have been carried out thus far. “In February 2024, the Ministry carried out a site clearance, marking the start of the work for the construction of the Windhoek District Hospital. This activity was carried out by the National Youth Service at a cost of N$581 900,” he said. The City of Windhoek in 2017 resolved to allocate…

Allexer Namundjembo The Ndama Clinic in Rundu has been without water for the past few weeks due to low water pressure. Affirmative Repositioning activist Angelina Immanuel revealed this to the Windhoek Observer on Wednesday. She said she learned from the matron during her visit to the clinic that the facility had been without water for weeks. “It is a big water crisis here. The taps are dry, and the matron informed me that they have been without water for the past two weeks, and it has become a norm every year during this season. What worries me the most is…

Niël Terblanché Reflecting on the significance of peace in securing a brighter and more prosperous future for all should be at the top of the agenda in all government structures around the globe. On Thursday, Namibia joined the global community in commemorating the 79th United Nations (UN) Day under the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace.” President Nangolo Mbumba, in a special message, stressed the vital role the UN plays in promoting peace, stability, and multilateralism in a world currently grappling with widespread conflict and unrest. Mbumba said the theme resonates deeply with Namibia’s role as Co-Chair of the Summit…