The Namibian government has appointed a new board of directors for NamWater, tasking it with strengthening water security, accelerating infrastructure delivery and improving the sustainability of the country’s bulk water supply network.
The board is chaired by Matty Hauuangga, with Frieda Muaine serving as deputy chairperson. Other members are Nolan Swarts, Abel Akayombokwa, Michelle Handura, Francina T. Mwandingi and Alfeus M. Matheus.
Speaking at the board’s inaugural meeting, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, Inge Zaamwani, said the appointments place the board at the centre of Namibia’s development agenda as government seeks to expand access to reliable water services.
“Your appointment has been made in accordance with the provisions of the Namibia Water Corporation Act, 1997, as well as the Public Enterprises Governance Act, 2019, which provides the framework for the governance, oversight and management of public enterprises in Namibia,” Zaamwani said.
The minister said the board assumes office at a critical time, with several strategic water projects currently under implementation across the country.
These include the Omafo-Eenhana Extension, the Ondangwa-Omutsegwonime Pipeline Replacement and the Rundu Water Purification Plant. Additional projects include the rehabilitation of the Omahenene-Oshakati Canal, the rerouting of infrastructure around Oshikuku Settlement and the replacement of the Naute-Keetmanshoop Pipeline.
“The successful completion of these projects will be critical in enhancing system reliability, reducing water losses and extending the reach and resilience of Namibia’s bulk water supply network,” she said.
Zaamwani said the new board is expected to provide strategic leadership, strengthen NamWater’s financial sustainability and ensure the delivery of critical infrastructure needed to support economic growth and improve living standards.
She warned that Namibia’s arid climate and recurring drought conditions require urgent investment in water infrastructure and innovative solutions.
“Delays in critical infrastructure delivery translate into delays in improving the quality of life of our citizens and constraining economic development,” she said.
The minister also called for greater focus on alternative water sources, including desalination, water reuse, aquifer recharge and improved demand management.
“Alternative water sources and innovative solutions, including desalination, water reuse, aquifer recharge and improved demand management, must increasingly form part of Namibia’s water security strategy,” Zaamwani said.
She further highlighted the strategic importance of projects such as the Erongo SUNAM Desalination Plant and the Kavango Link Project, which are expected to play a key role in securing future water supplies.
“Under the leadership of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every Namibian household has access to safe water, placing NamWater at the centre of our developmental agenda,” she said.
