The Otjiwarongo Municipality is gearing up for an ambitious wastewater treatment plant and waste-to-energy project, a venture that demands more waste input than the town currently produces.
This was highlighted by the municipality’s acting chief executive officer, Erickson Mwayekange, during the inauguration of the project’s inception workshop. In a region where water scarcity is an ever-present concern, the Wastewater Treatment Plant and Waste-to-Energy Project are set to provide a vital alternative water source. This innovative approach revolves around the recycling and repurposing of wastewater generated within the town.
However, a significant challenge lies ahead, as the town currently generates a mere 5.5 metric tons of waste monthly, while the biomass 5 kV plant necessitates nearly 20 metric tons per month to operate optimally. Acting CEO of Otjiwarongo Municipality, Erikson Mwayekange, says, “We have invited surrounding towns, as this is not just for Otjiwarongo but for all local authorities. Our intention, Hon. Minister, is to import waste from this town for us in 3–4 years. Now waste will not be a problem; it will be gold for us.”
To make this visionary project a reality, the Otjiwarongo Municipality has engaged development partners from Germany, who conducted a comprehensive feasibility study. The African Development Bank has pledged substantial support, with approximately N$30 million in funding, while the Climate Fund is also chipping in with around N$2 million.
The Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni, says, “When you come to take over, please continue with that. The purpose is to grow the economy of the country in the region and to grow the economy of a municipal council.”
The overarching objective of the wastewater treatment facility is twofold: to safeguard human life and to protect the ecosystem from the detrimental and toxic elements commonly found in wastewater.
Leave a Reply