Two major water infrastructure projects completed in Erongo

Two critical water infrastructure projects in the Erongo region have been commissioned and completed.

The projects are the Henties Bay extension and upgrade phase 1 and the Kuiseb-collector 2-Swakopmund pipeline replacement phase 3.

The projects are part of the drive modernise and secure water supply in the central and coastal regions.

Minister of agriculture, water and land reform Calle Schlettwein on Friday described the projects as crucial in addressing the growing water needs of communities and industries at Henties Bay, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.

“These initiatives ensure water security, support economic growth, and enhance quality of life, and the government is committed to ensuring sustainable development for all,” he said.

The Henties Bay project involved replacing a 5km pipeline and upgrading ageing infrastructure to meet the rising demand for water driven by population growth and seasonal tourism.

The Kuiseb-collector 2 pipeline replacement addresses long-standing challenges in water distribution efficiency and reliability.

The initiative replaces outdated infrastructure with modern systems, ensuring a secure water supply to Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and surrounding communities, Schlettwein said.

The upgrade also reduces water loss and enhances service delivery to industries such as mining and fisheries.

The minister said the projects not only serve Henties Bay, Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, but also impacts neighbouring towns.

NamWater chief executive Abraham Nehemia said by improving service reliability and reducing water losses, the project lays the groundwork for robust water supply systems in the Erongo region.

Erongo governor Neville Andre highlighted the broader implications of the upgrades.

“Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are vital economic hubs. This project supports their sustainability and ensures surrounding communities can thrive,” he said.

The projects are part of a larger strategy to develop an integrated bulk water system for Namibia’s west coast capable of using multiple water sources, including the Omdel and Kaiser Delta aquifers, as well as desalination plants.

This integrated approach ensures resilience in water supply for the region, where fresh water remains a scarce resource.