Namavambi:Brown drinking water is a significant concern at Namavambi Combined School in the Tondoro Constituency, where principal Johanna Hamunime informed Kavango West Governor Verna Sinimbo that the water consumed by pupils is affecting their health.

According to Namibia Press Agency, during an outreach visit, Hamunime explained that the water, sourced from the school's own borehole, contains numerous impurities. Despite rehabilitation efforts by the Ministry of Education in 2024, the water quality has not improved, with mud possibly blocking the pipes.

Kavango West Education Director Pontianus Musore noted that although a company was contracted to rehabilitate the borehole and clean the tanks, the issue of brown water persists. Steps are being taken to determine whether further rehabilitation or replacement of the borehole is necessary.

In addition to water problems, the school faces a shortage of sanitation facilities, with only four pit latrines for girls and four for boys, which are inadequate for the school's 620 learners. Hamunime emphasized the importance of good sanitation for the health, safety, and dignity of students.

The principal also highlighted other challenges, including learners from child-headed households and those traveling long distances, impacting attendance and learning. Grade 11 pupils are currently staying in classrooms to prepare for national examinations due to the absence of a hostel, a request that has been longstanding.

Furthermore, the school lacks essential resources such as desks, chairs, and computers, despite having a computer lab. The school also has limited sports facilities. Hamunime mentioned that staff could produce furniture if materials were provided, as demonstrated by the podium made at the school due to its woodwork curriculum.