Windhoek: Works and Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi on Friday handed over a N$132 million project to rehabilitate six dilapidated roads, covering approximately eight kilometres in Walvis Bay.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the project is a collaboration between the Roads Authority (RA), the Road Fund Administration (RFA), and the Walvis Bay Municipality, with Unik Construction appointed as the contractor. It forms part of a broader agreement commenced in May 2023 until March 2025 and subsequently extended to April 2028 due to delays caused by various factors.

Nekundi said the project demonstrates Government's commitment to moving beyond plans and promises to delivering infrastructure that benefits communities. 'We are not here to promise, but we are here to deliver on those roads that we have promised you. N$132 million is not little money; therefore, quality must not be compromised,' he cautioned.

Nekundi further directed the contractor to employ residents and involve small and medium enterprises, saying the project should create opportunities for Namibians to gain construction experience and skills. 'Workers must also be paid no less than government-prescribed wages and provided with written employment contracts,' he said.

Erongo Governor Nathalia /Goagoses welcomed the project, saying the rehabilitation was necessary to ensure Walvis Bay's road infrastructure keeps pace with its economic growth, adding that the town's role as a gateway for national, regional, and international trade has increased pressure on roads originally designed for lower traffic volumes. 'The continuation of these access roads therefore represents a practical and forward-looking investment. It will improve mobility, enhance road safety, reduce congestion, facilitate efficient freight movement and support continued economic expansion,' /Goagoses said.

Walvis Bay Municipality Chief Executive Officer Victoria Kapenda said underground infrastructure, particularly the C1 network running beneath several roads, had slowed implementation. Conventional excavation methods proved unsuitable, according to her, prompting the municipality to explore technology-based solutions to realign the network. An initial tender attracted no suitable response; however, it has since been re-advertised.

Kapenda said the broader programme is divided into five lots covering emergency repairs, urgent rehabilitation, intersection upgrades, pothole maintenance, and major rehabilitation of roads carrying heavy traffic. She said additional roads in residential areas had also been identified for rehabilitation at a later stage under the existing agreement and available funding.