Windhoek: Communities in the Oshikoto and Ohangwena regions are moving closer to securing reliable and climate-resilient water supplies. The government has confirmed that the installation of desalination package plants will commence by the end of September 2026.According to Namibia Press Agency, the announcement followed a high-level package plants project progress review and coordination meeting at NamWater's head office in Windhoek. Government representatives, development partners, and technical experts gathered to assess the project's progress and reinforce coordination for its implementation.Oshikoto Governor Sacky Kathindi emphasized the significance of the project during the meeting. Kathindi highlighted the project's role in expanding access to reliable, sustainable, and climate-resilient water supplies for the communities in the two northern regions. He expressed commitment to the project's successful execution for the benefit of the people.The first phase of the initiative will see desalination plants installed at Omundaungilo, Omahahi, and Oluungu in the Ohangwena Region, with Evale and Oluundje villages in the Oshikoto Region also benefiting. A second phase will extend the project to Oshipala and Oshikunde in Ohangwena, and Oshataha, Elambo, and Ohaimbada in Oshikoto.Timothy Silombela, NamWater's Head of Programme Management, spoke to Nampa, stating that the project is part of development cooperation between the Namibian and German governments, financed through KfW Development Bank. Silombela explained that the project aims to tackle one of northern Namibia's pressing challenges: accessing safe and sustainable water supplies. Modern desalination package plants will treat poor-quality groundwater, converting it into potable water fit for domestic use.Silombela noted that the intervention is anticipated to enhance water availability for households, schools, health facilities, and other public institutions, while also bolstering communities' resilience to climate change and recurring droughts. Th e project is expected to improve public health, strengthen rural livelihoods, and contribute to long-term water security in the two regions.The governors of Oshikoto and Ohangwena expressed their satisfaction with the progress made and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the implementation efforts to ensure swift community benefits from the investment.The project is a collaborative effort involving NamWater, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, KfW Development Bank, Boreal Light, and Aquarius Consult.