The Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF) is set to develop water-softening systems (mini desalination plants) in 10 regions across the country.
This was after the fund signed a N$15 million deal with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform aimed at softening water in communities to make it suitable for human consumption and irrigation purposes.
The 10 regions identified for the pilot project, in collaboration with the decentralised function of the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Coordination, are: Erongo, Hardap, //Kharas, Oshikoto, Kunene, Kavango East, Kavango West, Ohangwena, Omusati and Zambezi regions respectively.
Erongo Region was included for theft proofing, securing and reinforcing solar panel infrastructure and converting windmills into solar at Goeiegeluk Pos and Santamab Pos 1 sites in the Spitzkoppe area of Erongo Region.
“I am delighted to announce this official signing between the two parties for the funding of the proposed pilot projects in the 10 regions in collaboration with the decentralised function of the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Coordination,” said Agriculture, Water and Land Reform Executive Director Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata.
The agreement between the two parties is expected to last until 31 December 2024, unless otherwise terminated or extended by a party in accordance with the provision of the agreement signed between the two parties.
EIF Chief Executive Officer Benedict Libanda said the fund is committed to support Namibia’s transition to a more sustainable future.
“It is my firm belief that the water softening facilities that we are going to put up at various community water points across 10 regions of our country will enhance the resilience of the communities to the impacts of climate change and enable them to diversify their livelihoods by growing vegetables in their backyard gardens achieving universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all,” he said.
The EIF is mandated with implementing community projects to improve the lives of our people in communal areas.
In September last year, the MAWLR and EIF, witnessed the handover of the Reverse Osmosis Units installed at the three community water points, namely communal farms Vrede, Goeiegeluk Pos and Santamab Pos 1 in the Spitzkoppe area of Erongo Region.
