NamWater says it has officially commenced with the expansion of the Outapi Water Treatment Plant (WTP) with an investment of N$141.8 million.
The project aims to address pressing water shortages and improve both the quantity and quality of water in the region.
Originally commissioned in 2001, the Outapi WTP has been serving Outapi Town and surrounding rural areas as a source of water.
However, rapid urbanisation and population growth have strained the plant’s capacity, which has now reached its limits, leading to supply challenges.
The expansion project will increase the plant’s capacity from 180 to 438 cubic meters of water per hour, significantly enhancing water availability for both residential and commercial needs.
“This project is valued at N$141.8 million (including VAT), with a construction timeline of 16 months. It incorporates cutting-edge engineering solutions designed by Element Consulting Engineers and Mariswe Consulting Engineers, ensuring that the project is tailored specifically to Namibia’s unique water challenges,” said NamWater CEO Abraham Nehemia.
He further explained that in addition to boosting capacity, the upgrade will incorporate advanced filtration and purification systems, ensuring that the water meets Namibia’s new water quality standards.
This will help improve public health and provide a safer, more reliable drinking water supply.
Once completed, the upgraded plant will also address water pressure issues, enhancing the overall service delivery to residents and businesses.
Nehemia said the upgrade is a key investment in Namibia’s water future, supporting both the region’s development and the country’s commitment to sustainable, water-secure communities.
“The plant will be equipped with advanced filtration and purification systems, ensuring that the water produced complies with Namibia’s New Water Quality Standards. This upgrade not only guarantees the safety and health of the residents but also reflects NamWater’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality drinking water,” he said.
Agriculture, Water and Land Reform minister, Calle Schlettwein said the Outapi WTP Extension and Upgrade Project is a strategic intervention designed to meet the current and future needs of the region, and to lay the foundation for a more water-secure Namibia.
“This project embodies our government’s commitment to ensuring that every Namibian has access to safe, clean, and reliable water, as guaranteed by our national development goals. The Outapi WTP Extension and Upgrade is not just a local initiative; it is part of a broader vision shared by NamWater and the Government of the Republic of Namibia to address the critical issue of water security across the nation,” he said.
“ With water scarcity being a pressing issue in many parts of Namibia, this upgrade contributes to our larger mission of ensuring sustainable water availability for all Namibians. By addressing the water challenges in Outapi, this project will provide a reliable and continuous supply of clean water for the region’s residents, businesses, and agricultural sectors.”
The expansion is part of NamWater’s broader strategic plan to modernise and expand water infrastructure across the country, particularly in high-demand regions such as Rundu and Eenhana.
