By Lot Ndamanomhata
As Honourable Calle Schlettwein prepares to retire in March 2025, Namibia pays tribute to a career defined by transformative leadership, sustainable development, and a steadfast commitment to public welfare.
His contributions to the water sector, coupled with his tenure in finance, agriculture, and land reform, reflect a legacy of visionary leadership, strategic execution, and a deep sense of duty towards managing Namibia’s most vital resource—water.
Honourable Schlettwein’s enduring legacy is one of equity, resilience, and innovation, shaping Namibia’s socio-economic landscape for generations to come.
Advocate for Public Assets and Equitable Services
As Minister of Finance, Honourable Schlettwein firmly opposed the privatisation of Namibia’s essential public assets, including water. At the 2024 World Water Forum in Bali, he reiterated his belief in public ownership of vital services, declaring: “Water must be given, and what you pay is secondary. If shared prosperity is our goal, privatisation will only bring inequality.”
This stance echoed the sentiments of global leaders like Nelson Mandela, who famously said: “What is privatised are the assets, while the liabilities remain public. The poor end up paying the price.” Honourable Schlettwein’s unwavering advocacy ensured that essential services remained in the hands of the people, prioritising equitable access and sustainable management of public resources.
He also criticised inefficiencies in outsourcing agricultural green schemes and abattoirs, stating: “We tried to outsource some green schemes, but six months down the line, no production has happened. The private sector is failing us, and we cannot rely on them. We must ensure production and sustainability ourselves.”
These perspectives highlight his consistent prioritisation of public welfare over profit, even in challenging economic times.
Championing Land Reform: A Historic Hand-Over to the !Khomanin Traditional Authority
Under Honourable Calle Schlettwein’s leadership as Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Namibia witnessed the historic hand-over of communal land to the !Khomanin Traditional Authority in the Khomas Region.
For the first time since independence, the region now includes communal land—spanning over 8,132 hectares acquired at a cost of N$33.8 million.
This significant milestone marked the culmination of decades of advocacy by the !Khomanin community, beginning in 1990. The communal land, governed under the Communal Land Reform Act, provides opportunities for cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.
Honourable Schlettwein’s commitment to addressing historical injustices and implementing the resolutions of the Second National Land Conference underscores his transformative approach to land reform in Namibia.
Architect of Namibia’s Water Sector
Under Honourable Schlettwein’s stewardship, Namibia achieved unprecedented advancements in water infrastructure. Investments exceeding N$3.8 billion transformed access to potable water, ensuring the sustainability of vital resources. Key projects included:
- Ohangwena II Wellfield Water Supply Schemes: A N$250 million lifeline delivering clean water through advanced boreholes and purification systems to Eenhana and surrounding communities.
- Rundu Water Treatment Plant Extension: A N$665 million transformative project boosting water supply in the Kavango East and West regions, addressing acute shortages.
- Ondangwa-Omutsegwonime Pipeline Replacement: A N$91 million project ensuring steady supply while meeting growing demand in the Oshana and Oshikoto regions.
- Henties Bay Reservoir Pipeline Upgrade: A N$15 million initiative safeguarding water access for a key coastal town.
- Outapi Water Treatment Works Extension: A N$123 million project enhancing water reliability for the Outapi community and surrounding areas.
- Ogongo-Oshakati Pipeline Replacement and Ancillary Works: A N$236 million project replacing an aging asbestos-cement pipeline with a 53-kilometre system to reduce water losses and meet future regional demands.
These projects demonstrate Honourable Schlettwein’s hands-on approach and ability to marshal resources for the benefit of Namibia’s people.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Policy
During his tenure, the Water Resource Management Act, 2013 (Act 11 of 2013) was operationalised in 2023, a milestone in safeguarding Namibia’s water resources and introducing sustainable governance practices critical for long-term security.
Visionary Leadership for Universal Access
Determined to achieve universal water access, Honourable Schlettwein led efforts to close the potable water access gap from 87% to 100%. His initiatives also prioritised sanitation improvements, addressing public health and development needs. Landmark projects like the Cabinet-approved Desalination Plant and Kavango Water Links Project exemplify his forward-thinking approach to mitigating water scarcity through innovation and resilience.
Visionary Leadership and Lasting Legacy
Just as Namibia honours Dr. Hifikepunye Pohamba for modernising Namibia’s road network, Honourable Schlettwein will be remembered as the architect of the nation’s modern water infrastructure. His vision to achieve universal potable water access and improve sanitation coverage reflects his determination to enhance the quality of life for all Namibians.
His leadership has positioned Namibia to tackle future challenges, aligning water sector advancements with socio-economic goals and climate resilience. His advocacy for equitable service provision, sustainable development, and resistance to privatisation has set the foundation for a resilient and inclusive future.
Even amid differing policy views, Honourable Schlettwein’s unwavering devotion to public service has earned him the respect of colleagues, partners, and the Namibian people. His legacy will remain a guiding light for future leaders tasked with continuing the work of ensuring “Water for All, Forever.”
On my own behalf, I express my deepest gratitude to Honourable Calle Schlettwein for his exemplary service and visionary leadership. His transformational contributions will be remembered, celebrated, and inspire generations to come. Happy retirement, sir.
*Lot Ndamanomhata is graduate of Public Management, Journalism and Communication. This article reflects his views and write entirely in his personal capacity.
