Construction has commenced on NamWater’s N$219.7 million Naute-Keetmanshoop Water Pipeline Replacement Project, a major infrastructure investment aimed at strengthening long-term water security for Keetmanshoop and surrounding communities in the //Kharas Region.
The project, valued at N$219,697,642.12, including VAT, is fully funded by NamWater and involves the construction of a new 36-kilometre underground bulk water pipeline using 450-millimetre Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) pipes alongside the existing pipeline. Construction is expected to be completed within 18 months.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform Inge Zaamwani described the project as a strategic investment in infrastructure that will improve water security while supporting economic development and climate resilience.
“Today, we are not merely commencing the construction of another piece of infrastructure. We are making a deliberate investment in the future of the people of the //Kharas Region, and we are affirming our unwavering belief that sustainable development begins with securing the resources upon which human life, economic growth and social progress depend,” Zaamwani said.
The existing Naute-Keetmanshoop Water Supply Scheme was constructed in 1971 and commissioned in 1972, supplying water to Keetmanshoop and neighbouring communities for more than five decades.
However, ageing infrastructure has resulted in an increasing number of leaks and pipe bursts, necessitating the replacement project.
Zaamwani said the project aligns with the objectives of the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which prioritises infrastructure development, economic transformation, climate resilience and improved service delivery.
“This project is therefore a powerful demonstration of visionary governance and prudent planning. It embodies the principle that sustainable development is not achieved by reacting to problems after they have escalated, but by investing strategically in the foundations that sustain life and economic prosperity,” she said.
She noted that implementation of the project had been delayed by almost two years because of procurement-related legal disputes initiated by unsuccessful bidders, but said the matter had since been resolved, allowing construction to begin.
Zaamwani added that Namibia, as one of the driest countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, must continue investing in strategic water infrastructure to strengthen resilience against climate variability and support long-term socio-economic development.
“Every investment in water infrastructure is an investment in national security and socio-economic stability,” she said.
The project is being implemented by Adaptive Building Land Construction CC, in joint venture with China State Engineering Corporation (Southern Africa), following a procurement process managed by the Central Procurement Board of Namibia.
NamWater Chief Executive Officer Abraham Nehemia said replacing the ageing steel pipeline is essential to improving the reliability of bulk water supply and reducing losses caused by infrastructure failures.
“The new 36-kilometre pipeline, constructed with durable Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP) pipes, will not only replace the existing line but will dramatically improve the reliability and safety of water delivery. This upgrade will support the Naute Dam’s reservoir capacity, optimise water treatment processes and reduce losses caused by infrastructure failures,” Nehemia said.
He added that the project is expected to create approximately 50 jobs during the construction phase while providing opportunities to strengthen local skills and participation.
“It is imperative that we maximise local content and capacity-building to ensure that this project benefits our people directly,” he said.
