Namibia and Germany have launched an N$83.9 million project to replace a critical section of the Kuiseb Collector 2–Swakopmund water pipeline, completing the final phase of the rehabilitation of infrastructure that has supplied the coast since 1974.
The 9-kilometre pipeline replacement is co-funded by the Namibian government and Germany’s KfW Development Bank and will replace ageing infrastructure with corrosion-resistant pipes designed to withstand the harsh coastal environment.
The project includes the installation of 5 kilometres of above-ground Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) pipes and 4 kilometres of underground High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes.
Once completed, the upgraded pipeline will transport up to 5,500 cubic metres of groundwater per hour to Swakopmund and will also be capable of supplying Walvis Bay through reverse flow during emergencies.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, NamWater Chief Executive Officer Abraham Nehemiah said the project would remove the last major bottleneck in one of the country’s most important water supply schemes.
“Today, we commence the replacement of the remaining priority sections, namely Sections 6B and 6C, thereby eliminating the last significant bottleneck within this critical water supply scheme. The total construction value of this project amounts to N$83.9 million, excluding VAT,” he said.
Nehemiah said NamWater would invest a further N$4 million in construction supervision, while the utility’s engineers and technicians would oversee implementation to ensure compliance with engineering and governance standards.
KfW Country Director Beatrice Luke said the project is expected to create about 120 local jobs during the estimated 12-month construction period, while also creating opportunities for local suppliers and skills transfer.
“The construction period is expected to be approximately 12 months. The project, together with the rehabilitation project that we will break ground on tomorrow, will also contribute to local economic development through the creation of approximately 120 employment opportunities,” she said.
Erongo Governor Natalia Goagoses welcomed the investment but called for the project to maximise local participation.
With unemployment in the region standing at 32%, nearly half of it affecting young people, Goagoses urged the contractor to prioritise Namibian workers and small and medium-sized enterprises.
“Let it be a Namibian project. Let it be done by Namibians together with our international friends,” she said.
She also called for skills transfer to ensure local engineers gain practical experience by working alongside international specialists.
