Staff Reporter
GROOT Aub’s years-long struggle to secure reliable water and electricity access is still ongoing, with some community members expressing their frustration on Thursday by marching to the City of Windhoek’s head office to demand a lasting solution.
The protest, led by Windhoek Constituency Councillor Piet Adams, was driven by the community’s lack of a reliable water supply for almost three years, despite seven boreholes having been drilled but not yet operational.
Their petition was received by the City’s Deputy Mayor, Joseph Uapingene, who assured residents that the city is in the final stages of addressing Groot Aub’s water supply issues. He said that further meetings with relevant stakeholders will be held to ensure a lasting solution.
“The City of Windhoek has drilled seven boreholes in Groot Aub, which only require connection to the electricity grid to begin pumping water. The City is still in talks with NamPower to take over electricity distribution in the area,” the City of Windhoek explained.
According to the City of Windhoek, unauthorised water tapping by nearby farmers and business owners is also partially responsible for the disruption of Groot Aub’s water supply, as it prevents the community’s reservoir from refilling.
“To support immediate needs, the City has purchased two 10,000-litre water tanks, which will provide a steady supply while a long-term solution is being finalised. The City cannot supply water directly from the boreholes, as it needs to go through the reservoir for treatment to ensure safety,” the City of Windhoek added.