The United States of America says the construction of its over N$318 million embassy in Windhoek, is set to be completed by January next year.
The construction, which began in May 2020, employed more than 2000 Namibians
“… I’m really proud of the very careful planning that’s gone on into the construction of this building. I would also note that it’s employed over 2000 Namibians over the course of its construction, right from the beginning stages, to having art installations that feature Namibian organisations on incorporating indigenous plants and solar energy too,” US Ambassador to Namibia, Randy Berry said.
Construction Manager at the new embassy compound, Scott Sables, said the building was constructed under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) framework which aims to maximise natural environmental features for highly efficient and cost saving buildings in order to reduce the building’s reliance on the National power grid.
“Main office building is situated east west and outfitted with facade materials to reduce solar heat gain. Strategic window placement coupled with vertical shading enhances the natural light inside the building and reduces the demand on Namibia’s power grid,” he said.
He further stated that the canopies in the parking structure had been fitted with solar panels which will generate half of the Embassy’s energy.
The City of Windhoek’s reclaimed wastewater system has also been incorporated into the building’s designs as well as low flow plumbing fixtures, faucets and toilets in an effort to significantly reduce water usage.
“The project has capitalized on the abundant solar resources, but also has taken steps to protect those which are scarce,” Berry said.
Research firm Simonis Storm has forecasted that the completion and opening of the new embassy could boost tourism and employment figures. It is understood that 400 permanent workers will be recruited with a 70/30 split between Namibian and American workers.
The embassy will house all US agencies operating in Namibia such as USAID, PEPFAR, CDC as well as the American Center.
