Maria David
“WATER security remains Namibia’s top priority as it is vital for survival,” said Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform Calle Schlettwein, emphasizing the importance of ensuring water security for the country by exploring new water supply development options.
Schlettwein made these remarks during the launch of the 1st Namibian Regional Water Symposium (NRWS), North Central Regions, held at Ongwediva in the Oshana Region on Wednesday.
The two-day symposium, which kicked off on Tuesday with presentations from various stakeholders, concluded on Wednesday and was held under the theme “Water and Sanitation for All: Achieving Sustainability and Security.”
According to Schletwein, as the Ministry responsible for water, “we have to have a strong water resource management capacity, which is scientifically grounded.”
“The required knowledge and data, data analysis, and applied technologies to manage water resources, both surface and groundwater, is an absolute necessity for appropriate water resource management,” he said.
He added that water resources management requires the government to take necessary financial, institutional, and legal measures to ensure sustainable access to water.
Without appropriate regulatory frameworks, Schletwein said that governmental bodies forfeit their ability to manage water allocation and protect relevant water rights.
Moreover, he indicated that the government has made great strides in achieving the water supply target for both rural and urban populations. “We are aware that more still needs to be done to ensure access to potable water for all.”
As a higher-level commitment, he noted that a Cabinet Committee on Water Supply Security was established to ensure water supply security in the country. Different measures are being taken towards infrastructure development and optimizations.
Further, Schlettwein indicated that plans are currently underway to develop the Ohangwena II aquifer by establishing a well field from which water is sustainably abstracted. This development will significantly augment the existing water supply infrastructure and the security of supply by integrating this additional resource into the system.
He stressed that it will equally greatly improve their ability to meet the water demands of the greater Ohangwena region.
Oshana Governor Elia Irimari indicated that Namibia faces its own unique challenges and opportunities regarding water; thus, the symposium is a crucial platform to foster collaboration and share knowledge.
Irimari added that Namibia’s water management must be rooted in science, innovation, and a deep respect for the environment.
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