Kapako: The Kapako Constituency Office on Monday handed over 20-litre water containers to 100 persons with disabilities as part of a water crisis relief initiative aimed at easing water challenges in the area. The containers form part of 500 units donated to the constituency by Coca-Cola Namibia to support communities affected by a severe water shortage.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Kapako Constituency Councillor Augustinus Kupembona highlighted that the donation followed engagements with the company regarding the constituency's critical water situation, particularly in inland areas. "The donation came from Coca-Cola Namibia after we engaged them because of the critical water issues in this constituency," Kupembona explained.

Many residents, especially those living inland, face the arduous task of traveling between five and 10 kilometres to access water at the nearest point. Kupembona emphasized the importance of the donation, stating, "Even if you give them a small two-litre container, they really appreciate it, so we requested bigger containers so that they can have water at their disposal." On Monday, 100 beneficiaries received containers, while the remaining units will be distributed to persons with disabilities in surrounding villages.

The 20-litre water containers are expected to help recipients store clean water and keep it in their homes for extended periods. Kupembona remarked that the donation is only a starting point. "These 500 containers are just a drop in the ocean. If I had the power, every household inland would have at least two containers because I know the water challenges in this constituency," he added.

Johannes Mbangere, a beneficiary and representative of persons with disabilities in Kapako, expressed gratitude for the donation, acknowledging its meaningful impact. "This donation means a lot to us, even though some will criticise it. For us, it is something, because many of us do not have containers in which we can store water even for two days," Mbangere said, noting that a similar 20-litre container costs about N.dollars 45 in local shops. With limited financial resources, such an expense is often unaffordable for those relying on small grants.

Mbangere thanked the constituency office and called for additional support, highlighting the ongoing struggle for water access. "We are really affected by the water crisis. Going to the river every day, which is about two kilometres away, is another struggle. We look forward to more donations like this and more boreholes being drilled so that water can be brought closer to us," he stated.