Ondangwa: Oshikoto Region Governor Sacky Kathindi has assured residents that water shortages in the region will soon be a thing of the past. Speaking at the Oshikoto Regional Council's annual review and planning workshop on Friday, Kathindi identified water security as a top priority for 2026.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the governor stated that the region has developed clear strategies to address the persistent challenge of unreliable and saline groundwater. "If the plans for reverse osmosis and desalination plants, which are designed to address the water problem in the region, are implemented as planned, the water shortage in Oshikoto will become history," Kathindi said.

Kathindi emphasized that water is not merely a basic service, but a foundation for agriculture, health, education, and overall economic growth. He called for accelerated borehole drilling, improved water infrastructure, and stronger collaboration with the national government and other stakeholders to ensure a reliable supply.

His remarks came on the final day of the five-day workshop held from 13 to 17 April 2026, during which council officials reviewed the past financial year and finalized development plans for the year ahead. Residents in the region have long experienced inconsistent water supply, particularly during the dry season, often relying on costly or poor-quality sources.

Kathindi urged all stakeholders to remain committed to implementing budgeted projects on time. He expressed confidence that, with strong leadership and sustained political will, 2026 will mark a turning point for Oshikoto, delivering clean and reliable water to communities as a guaranteed right.