By Lylie Happiness,
Oshakati, 26 Oct – Improved road infrastructure is key to development, said the mayor of Ongwediva Town Council Taarah Shalyefu when he officially commissioned Church Street in Ongwediva today (26/10/2022).
The 1,6km road, stretching from Abraham Nyambali Street to Kahumba Kandola Street, started in September 2021 and was completed in June 2022, costing N$8,2 million.
Shalyefu said the decision to upgrade the road came after continuous consultations between the council and the residents in pursuit of developmental agendas which in turn contribute to the much-anticipated promotion of a sustainable local economy and quality municipal service delivery.
He said the upgrading of the road to bitumen signifies the council’s commitment to improving the road network in town.
“Our long-term strategic approach is to ensure that roads leading to institutions are tarred thereby connecting to all economic active points in Ongwediva.
“With the limited resources at our disposal, the council shall continue to identify significantly
roads for upgrading,” he said.
In addition to upgrading gravel roads to bitumen standards, the council will continue maintaining municipal services including gravel roads for easy access by the residents.
Shalyefu said this is done through contracting companies with road work expertise in order to sustain quality workmanship.
He urged road users to observe road signs and avoid speeding in a residential area because this can result in injuries and even death.
Speaking on behalf of the residents Tatekulu Moses Hamutumwa expressed gratitude to the council for responding positively to their pleas for a better road network.
“We are now able to enter our houses and business space smoothly,” he said.
He recounted that Ongwediva Town is known for being a town of opportunities and its leading role in the development and ensuring service is brought closer to the people.