Windhoek: Residents in the Omaheke Constituency have slammed the condition of the 12-kilometer gravel road between Otjimati and Ozombouvapa, saying the road needs urgent expansion and maintenance to prevent accidents.

According to Namibia Press Agency, residents in recent interviews expressed that the road has been a challenge for far too long, and previous constituency councillors were aware of it. The residents described the road as narrow, sandy, and lacking a proper drainage system for rainwater. They added that the situation has worsened, forcing them to carry tools when traveling on the road in case their vehicles get stuck, especially during the rainy season.

Ukenda Hange, a resident, stated: "We are driving at our own risk here, especially during the rainy season. One has to carry along an axe and spade when travelling to make side roads, or else you will be stuck in water."

Another resident, Mbatjandangi Murangi, emphasized the need for urgent attention to the road as its boundaries prevent water from flowing to lower ground. "We are paying for the roads, but we are getting poor service. Imagine driving on side roads with a sick person to Otjimanangombe clinic," he said, adding that something must be done. The Otjombundiro-Otjijarua road also needs attention.

Residents also raised similar concerns about the Okatumba Gate road to Okovimburu and gravel roads in Otjinene, Otjombine, Aminuis, Eiseb Block, and parts of commercial farm roads in the Okorukambe Constituency.

In response, Roads Authority manager for corporate communications Hileni Fillemon said some roads mentioned have been proclaimed but not yet constructed to engineered gravel standards. These include the Otjinene-Gam, Epata-Okaoveni, Okazapamba to Otjinoko, Okatumba Gate to Botswana border, and Eiseb 6 from D3832 to Botswana border. Other roads include the Toasis, Otjiwarongo, Okungas, and Kumu roads, as well as Omongua, Sarie Mar©, and Corridor 13, in the Aminuis Constituency.

Fillemon added that some roads previously gravelled now require periodic maintenance, specifically replacement of the wearing course layer. These roads naturally deteriorate due to traffic loading, climatic conditions, and material loss. Roads in need of maintenance include the Otjinene-Epukiro road, Okatumba Gate to Embonde, D3812, and D3825 to M0114 in the Otjombinde Constituency.

"The RA schedules replacement of the wearing course layer to restore structural integrity and maintain acceptable service levels. As part of its strategy to improve the sustainability and performance of unsurfaced roads, RA is embarking on an implementation program to roll out soil stabilization technologies on selected unsurfaced roads across the country," Fillemon said.