By Lylie Happiness
Katima Mulilo, 10 August – Namwater marked a significant milestone with the commencement of a groundbreaking ceremony for the Raw Water pipeline replacement project in Katima Mulilo on Thursday. This ambitious initiative aims to meet the escalating demand for water while supporting the government’s efforts to extend access to clean drinking water in rural regions.
At the heart of water supply in the Zambezi region, the raw water pipeline is vital for sustaining the town of Katima Mulilo, communities served by the Katima-Sibbinda pipeline, the Katima to Bukalo pipeline, and the Katima-Linyanti pipeline. These areas heavily depend on the proper functioning of the raw water pipeline to receive water.
The project was executed at a cost of 2.4 million Namibian dollars, underlining its importance and impact on the region’s water infrastructure.
During the official launch of the project, Zambezi Regional Governor Lawrence Alfea Sampofu expressed gratitude to Namwater and acknowledged the challenges faced in ensuring adequate and quality water supply to Katima Mulilo and its surroundings. The governor highlighted the historical water supply issues in Katima Mulilo and the negative effects they had on residents’ lives and the local economy.
Speaking at the groundbreaking event, Katima Mulilo Urban Constituency Councillor Kennedy Simasiku welcomed the long-overdue project, emphasizing its significance in accommodating the town’s growing population through pipeline replacement and reservoir enhancements.
Namwater’s Chief Executive Officer, Abraham Nehemia, assured residents that the water supplied through the Katima Mulilo scheme remains of top quality, devoid of possible pollution concerns associated with the old, dilapidated reservoir covers. Nehemia also revealed that Namwater has taken a strategic step to localize water supply leadership by appointing an area manager to address local needs effectively.
Nehemia urged Katima residents to continue paying for water services to ensure the Corporation’s ability to sustain the nation’s water supply in the future.
In addition to the pipeline project, Namwater also invested 5.4 million Namibian dollars to rehabilitate the clear water reservoirs in Katima Mulilo.
The Raw Water pipeline project launch underscores Namwater’s commitment to enhancing water infrastructure and ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for the region.-Namibia Daily News
